WOOSTER, Ohio — For the 10th year, Certified Angus Beef LLC reported record sales of its signature Certified Angus Beef ® brand, marketing 1.015 billion pounds of product in fiscal 2016 – a 13.3 percent increase.
“Thanks to a dramatic positive shift in the supply of high quality Angus cattle, our partners were able to deliver more of the highest quality beef to consumers while supporting ranching families,” said brand president John Stika. “Our partners’ collective achievement illustrates the relevance of our mission established in 1978. By delivering unique experiences and value to consumers, our individual partners succeed as well.”
A few years after a devastating drought, ranchers saw the fruits of their efforts to rebuild herds. Beyond adding more cattle, they improved their herds with a strong focus on raising high-quality Angus cattle, ultimately increasing premium beef supply.
“This additional supply led to reduced prices for consumers while continuing to deliver more of the same quality beef they’ve come to expect,” said Stika.
Category, divisional growth
Eight of the 10 best sales months in the brand’s 38-year history were in fiscal 2016. Sales of more than 90 million pounds in July, August and September reflect the strength of grilling season.
Growth was balanced across product categories. Sales of premium steaks (middle meats) grew by 11.4 percent, illustrating the appeal of premium beef cuts, while end meat sales grew by 14.9 percent and ground beef, 7.9 percent.
Retail division sales exploded with 18.5 percent growth, thanks to lower beef prices and grocery partners aggressively featuring the brand's items. Foodservice enjoyed a seventh consecutive year of record sales and 6.3 percent growth.
International sales reached a new record of 138 million pounds in 49 countries, with Japan leading the growth.
The brand’s convenience products rose 8.9 percent, with smoked brisket, marinated fajita meat and fresh corned beef driving growth.
Founded in 1978 by a group of family Angus ranchers, the Certified Angus Beef ® brand is the only brand owned by the American Angus Association®. An industry leader and world renowned for quality, it is enjoyed for its flavor, tenderness and juiciness, and offered by the finest restaurants and retailers worldwide. The Certified Angus Beef ® brand meets 10 standards for quality, more selective than USDA Choice or Prime. For more information, visit www.CertifiedAngusBeef.com.
Source: Certified Angus Beef ® LLC
