Australia Soup Market Size, Share Analysis and Forecast Report (2024-2032)

Australia Soup Market Trends

The growing demand for the Australia soup market is driven by a shift towards healthier, natural ingredients, catering to health-conscious consumers. Ready-to-eat soups provide quick meal solutions, while a variety of options, such as vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free, address different dietary preferences. Premium gourmet and organic soups target discerning buyers. Sustainability initiatives focus on eco-friendly packaging and responsibly sourced ingredients.

The Australia soup market is further impacted by using locally sourced, fresh ingredients, with many soups incorporating high-quality produce grown in Australia. Busy lifestyles and time constraints fuel demand for convenient, ready-to-eat options with long shelf life. The winter months boost soup consumption, while plant-based varieties cater to the growing vegan trend. In February 2023, the Australian Bureau of Statistics reported a civilian population of 21.2 million, with 13.8 million employed individuals, driving increased demand for ready meals.

Australia Soup Market Growth

The growth of the Australia soup market is driven by the increasing availability of low-sodium soups to cater to health-conscious diets. A diverse range of flavours appeals to local tastes, from traditional to international varieties. The rise of niche soup cafes highlights growing interest in fresh, made-to-order soups. Additionally, soups are becoming a popular light meal option within the snacking trend, with functional soups that boost immunity and overall health gaining traction. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, around 56% of Australians aged 15 and over rate their health as "excellent" or "very good."

Personalisation is becoming a key trend in the Australia soup market, with customers able to customise their soups in restaurants and stores. Soups remain an affordable meal choice, especially for families and budget-conscious individuals. Cultural fusion soups, combining Australian and global flavours, are increasingly common. The market also benefits from the rise of online shopping and subscription models, while functional soups offering digestive and detox benefits are seeing growing popularity.

Australia Soup Market Insights

• The Australian Government's adjustment to working hours, increasing the limit from 40 to 48 hours per fortnight, benefits the soup market by encouraging greater demand for convenient, ready-to-eat meal options. Consumers with busier schedules may turn to soups for quick, nutritious meals, driving market growth and sales.
• According to industry reports, the distribution of ready meals in Australia included 48.7% frozen, 38.7% chilled, and 12.6% shelf-stable options. This breakdown benefits the Australian soup market by highlighting growing consumer demand for convenient, ready-to-eat soups across various formats, particularly frozen and chilled varieties.
• According to the Department of Health and Aged Care, around 13 million adults and 3 million children in Australia participate in sports annually, promoting active lifestyles. This trend benefits the Australian soup market by increasing demand for nutritious, convenient meal options, such as functional soups that support recovery and overall health.
• The soup market in the Australian Capital Territory is expected to grow at a rate of 2.1% from 2024 to 2032.

Industry News

April 2024

As winter draws near, ABC News presents hearty soup recipes, including a vegetable-packed minestrone, a chicken, leek, parsnip, and noodle broth, and a chunky tomato and vegetable soup with tortellini. These comforting, nourishing dishes are ideal for the colder months, offering both warmth and satisfaction.

May 2021

Woolworths introduced over 70 new fresh meal solutions, perfect for midweek dinners or entertaining, to save customers time on winter meals. The Strength Meals Co range included dishes like Lemon Pepper Chicken, Spinach & Ricotta Tortellini, Pulled Beef Lasagne, and high-protein soups with low sugar and fibre.

Australia Soup Market Drivers

Health and Wellness Focus

The Australia soup market is expanding as consumers increasingly demand healthier, nutrient-dense options. Growing awareness of plant-based diets and clean eating is pushing the popularity of soups made from organic, low-sodium, and all-natural ingredients. In addition, functional soups that offer health benefits, such as boosting immunity or supporting digestion, are gaining traction. Many consumers are opting for soups with fewer preservatives and additives, aligning their choices with wellness trends. The demand for vegetable-based soups, lean proteins, and plant-based alternatives like lentils or chickpeas is rising. Based on early data from the National Nutrition Survey and other studies, it's estimated that 2% of Australians, or around 500,000 people, follow a vegan lifestyle, further contributing to this shift towards plant-based eating.

Convenience and Ready-to-Eat Soups

Ready-to-eat soups are increasingly shaping the Australia soup market dynamics and trends, catering to busy, on-the-go consumers. As more Australians seek quick and convenient meal options, brands are offering nutritious soups that are easy to prepare and consume. These ready-made options, available in cans, pouches, or cartons, provide a convenient and healthy alternative to home-cooked meals. Many ready-to-serve soups also have long shelf lives, making them ideal for busy households, students, and professionals in need of a fast, nutritious meal. Dari’s fresh soups, produced on a large scale, maintain a focus on simplicity and transparency in ingredients. Known for experimenting with bold and exotic flavours, Dari’s offers a range of hearty, light, and feel-good soups. Available in the chilled section of retailers such as Coles, Woolworths, and independent shops, they cater to the increasing demand for convenience and quality.

Opportunities in the Australian Soup Market

The development of the Australia soup market is being driven by a significant shift towards plant-based and vegan options, spurred by the growing number of Australians adopting vegetarian, vegan, and flexitarian diets. Consumers are increasingly seeking soups that match their ethical and health-conscious values. This has led to a rise in the use of plant-based ingredients, such as lentils, beans, quinoa, and various vegetables. Vegan soups are becoming more popular for providing protein-rich, tasty meals without animal products. This trend is also influenced by a growing awareness of environmental sustainability and a desire to reduce animal consumption. In 2022, the Department of Agriculture, Water, and the Environment reported that around 60% of organic sales went to retailers, with 58% sold directly to consumers within Australia.

Market Restraints

The Australia soup market faces several challenges impacting growth. High competition and market saturation make it difficult for new entrants and existing brands to maintain market share, while price competition reduces profit margins. Rising raw material costs and supply chain disruptions affect production costs, potentially raising retail prices. Changing consumer preferences, particularly towards health-conscious and plant-based diets, may limit the demand for traditional soups.

The shelf-life limitations of fresh products and health concerns about preservatives in ready-to-eat soups also pose challenges. Economic uncertainty and growing consumer wariness of processed foods may further constrain growth. Additionally, sustainability issues around packaging and regulatory challenges add to the complexities of the market.

Australia Soup Industry Segmentation

“Australia Soup Market Report and Forecast 2024-2032” offers a detailed analysis of the market based on the following segments:

Market Breakup by Type

• Canned/Preserved Soup
• Chilled Soup
• Dehydrated Soup
• Frozen Soup
• UHT Soup

Market Breakup by Category

• Vegetarian Soup
• Non – Vegetarian Soup

Market Breakup by Packaging

• Canned
• Pouches
• Others

Market Breakup by Distribution Channel

• Hypermarkets/Supermarkets
• Convenience Stores
• Online Channel
• Others

Market Breakup by Region

• New South Wales
• Victoria
• Queensland
• Australian Capital Territory
• Western Australia
• Others

Australia Soup Market Share

Market Analysis by Type

According to the Australia soup market analysis, chilled soups lead the market, offering convenient ready-to-eat options for busy consumers. This segment is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.6% from 2024 to 2032. They maintain fresh flavours and nutrients without additives or preservatives, making them a popular, healthy meal choice. These soups are often considered a premium option, aligning with health-conscious trends.

The growth of the Australia soup market is further supported by dehydrated soups, which offer a long shelf life and portability. This segment is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.3% from 2024 to 2032. These soups are lightweight, easy to store, and come in various flavour profiles, meeting the demand for healthy, quick meals. They also support sustainability efforts by reducing food waste and packaging.

Market Analysis by Category

According to the Australia soup market report, vegetarian soups are becoming increasingly popular due to the rising demand for plant-based diets and nutrient-dense meals. This segment is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.5% from 2024 to 2032. For instance, at the Matthew Talbot Hostel in Sydney’s Woolloomooloo, a humble bowl of pumpkin soup illustrates the power of food relief, providing not just nourishment but also dignity and hope to homeless individuals.

The demand for the Australia soup market is also increasing, driven by non-vegetarian soups that cater to meat lovers seeking rich, hearty flavours and a high protein content. Chicken, beef, and seafood soups are popular choices that offer comforting, filling meals for a range of dietary preferences. The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Forestry predicts a 2% rise in poultry meat production, reaching USD 3.9 billion by 2024-25, which is expected to further drive the demand for non-vegetarian soups.

Market Analysis by Packaging

The growth of the Australia soup market is driven by the popularity of canned soups, known for their convenience, long shelf life, and ease of storage. Offering a variety of flavours, they are a quick, hassle-free meal choice for busy consumers. Campbell’s condensed tomato soup, priced at USD 2.20 for 420g, is a thick, artificially flavoured product often used in recipes like "magic tomato soup cake." Though overly sweet and red, it pairs well with cheese toasties or as an ingredient in shepherd’s pie.

The demand for the Australia soup market is also boosted by pouch soups, which provide a fresh, quick meal solution with modern packaging that preserves flavour and nutrients. Convenient and portable, these resealable pouches are ideal for on-the-go consumption, while eco-friendly options cater to sustainability-conscious consumers. Lazuppa is a well-known Australian soup brand that provides high-quality, ready-to-serve soups in convenient pouches. Renowned for its tasty flavours and wholesome ingredients, Lazuppa offers a nutritious and hassle-free meal solution, catering to a variety of tastes while ensuring a long shelf life.

Australia Soup Market Regional Insights

New South Wales Soup Market Overview

According to the Australia soup industry analysis, the New South Wales soup market thrives due to its diverse consumer base, which seeks both traditional and health-conscious options. The growing demand for convenient, ready-to-eat meals has driven steady market growth, spurred by busy lifestyles and health-conscious trends. Sydney Local Health District, supporting over 740,000 residents, provides nutritious recipes like Congolese stew and Moroccan-style vegetable stew.

Queensland Soup Market Trends

In Queensland, there is an increasing preference for plant-based and gluten-free soups as consumers focus more on health. They demand natural, low-sodium ingredients with functional benefits, such as immunity-boosting properties. Health and Wellbeing Queensland, established in July 2019, works to improve food access, and supports policies like the A Better Choice Strategy in healthcare facilities.

Western Australia Soup Market Dynamics

Western Australia's soup market favours premium, gourmet soups, especially in urban areas. This segment is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.2% from 2024 to 2032. There is also a growing preference for locally sourced and organic ingredients. Seasonal demand for soups increases during colder months, affecting market trends. The Department of Health promotes health through programs like LiveLighter®, which encourages healthy eating and active lifestyles, providing resources such as meal plans and exercise guides.

Competitive Landscape

The Australia soup market key players specialise in high-quality snacks and convenience foods. They offer a diverse range of products such as chips, crackers, dips, and other snacks to meet various consumer tastes. These companies collaborate with multiple brands, providing both branded and private-label options for retailers. Innovation is central, with a strong focus on healthier alternatives to cater to health-conscious consumers. Additionally, they emphasise quality control, sustainability, and ethical sourcing to deliver great-tasting products while maintaining a positive impact on the environment and local communities.

Key Industry Players

The Arnott’s Group: Headquartered in Sydney, Australia, The Arnott’s Group is a leading manufacturer of biscuits, snacks, and soups. Established in 1865, the company has a long history of producing iconic Australian brands such as Tim Tam and Shapes. Arnott’s prioritises innovation, quality, and sustainability in its product offerings.

Simplot Australia Pty. Ltd.: Simplot Australia, founded in 1952 and based in Mentone, Victoria, is a major food manufacturer known for its frozen, processed foods. The company produces popular brands like Birds Eye, John West, and Leggo’s. Simplot focuses on high-quality food production with a commitment to sustainability and innovation.

Valcorp Fine Foods Pty Ltd.: Valcorp Fine Foods, founded in 1991 and headquartered in Melbourne, is a key player in the Australian food industry. The company produces a wide range of high-quality snacks, including chips, crackers, and dips. Valcorp is committed to offering innovative, flavourful products to meet diverse consumer tastes.

Woolworths Group Limited: Founded in 1924 and based in Bella Vista, New South Wales, Woolworths Group Limited is one of Australia’s largest supermarket chains. Known for its broad range of food, groceries, and household products, Woolworths places emphasis on quality, customer satisfaction, and sustainable sourcing in its operations.

Another key player in the Australia soup market report is Riviana Foods Pty. Ltd., among others.

Recent Developments

September 2024

Campbell Soup revealed plans to rebrand as The Campbell's Company, dropping "soup" from its name. This move was intended to better represent the company’s broader product range beyond soup. Known for pioneering canned soup in the late 19th century, Campbell Soup also gained cultural significance through Andy Warhol’s iconic pop art.

May 2023

Fresh, chilled soup brand Pitango launched its new resealable zipper pouch for winter. The pouch, designed to be easy to open and seal, was chosen after extensive consumer home testing of various packaging options. Pitango confirmed that the zippered pouch was the most suitable choice for their product.