The Way Up

Even as 2009 comes to a close with a little more than a month to go, there is much to cheer about. Having weathered the global economic credit crunch, the melamine scandal in China and Asia’s growing pains in becoming more sustainable, food and beverage industry players, both big and small, have found their niche and footing in the market.

Market research company Innova Market Insights (see page 6) is cheering the industry on with findings that new product launches are bouncing back in force even before this year ends. Francis Leong from DSM Food Specialties tells Asia Food Journal that there are signs showing that “the worst is over”, as he observes Q4 is picking up momentum (see page 28).

With the dawn of the new year, many are gearing up for a new level of growth with fresh perspectives of the industry. Product research will continue, marketing plans will proceed as planned, new factories will open and business will go on as usual – but with a greater appetite for competition, returns on investment and partnership.

As you wrap up the year and enjoy the festivities with your family and loved ones, we continue to be on the prowl for the latest market trends and insights so as to provide you with the tools and know-how to take the next step forward. Till we see you next year, enjoy the rest of 2009.