New York, NY – The Consorzio del Prosciutto di Parma is excited to announce that 2012 proved to be another record year for Prosciutto di Parma sales in the U.S. More than 500,000 legs and 2 million packs of pre-sliced product were sold in the U.S., the Consorzio’s number one export market. The U.S. became the top export market, surpassing France, in 2010. The 2012 sales numbers shatter the previous record set in 2011, with a 17% boost.
“We are very pleased with the target reached in the American market, which in 2012 continued to hold the record for Prosciutto di Parma exports,”said Consorzio President Paolo Tanara. “Over the years, we have worked very hard to promote our product, protect the brand and, above all, to adapt to the required strict food safety procedures and health guarantees. The Consorzio’s investment in training and promotion has been a key driver in our success.”
At the same time as sales have grown, average prices have risen moderately. Prosciutto di Parma exports to the U.S. are currently valued at roughly $61 million – ahead of France, Great Britain, and Germany.
“This is a success that rewards the efforts of associated companies that believed in and contributed to gradually building brand recognition and sales in a very important and difficult market, especially during a period of economic challenges,” said Stefano Fanti, manager of the Consorzio. “Producers deserve special recognition for their work every day ensuring Prosciutto di Parma has all the safety and traceability requisites that are essential for worldwide export.”
Forecasts for 2013 sales show constant medium-term growth and a balanced export trend. To maintain its upward trend, the Consorzio del Prosciutto di Parma continues its partnerships with importers and distributors to support training and promotion in retail and foodservice channels, as well as media outreach and consumer education online and at the point of sale.
The Consorzio del Prosciutto di Parma is the association of producers of the world’s most famous ham. The Consorzio is responsible for regulating every step in the production of Prosciutto di Parma, which still takes place only in the region of Parma using centuries-old traditional methods. The ducal crown is branded on each ham that has met the Consorzio’s strict quality standards and is the consumer’s assurance of authenticity.
For more information, visit our www.prosciuttodiparma.com, like us on Facebook www.facebook.com/Prosciutto-di-Parma-USA, and follow us on Twitter @parmaham_USA.
Source: Consorzio del Prosciutto di Parma