Market Overview

The Europe Meat Market was valued at USD 388.8 Billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 563.2 Billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 4.4% during the forecast period of 2025-2033. The market growth is propelled by rising consumer demand for protein-rich diets, evolving preferences for convenient meat products, and expanding food service sectors. Chicken leads the product segment due to its affordability, versatility, and favorable health perception within European households.

Study Assumption Years

• Base Year: 2024
• Historical Year/Period: 2019-2024
• Forecast Year/Period: 2025-2033

Europe Meat Market Key Takeaways

• Current Market Size: USD 388.8 Billion in 2024
• CAGR: 4.4% during 2025-2033
• Forecast Period: 2025-2033
• Market growth is driven by increasing demand for protein-rich diets in European households.
• Chicken dominates due to affordability, versatility, and health appeal as a lean protein.
• Technological advancements in meat processing and packaging improve product quality, safety, and shelf life.
• Rising popularity of sustainable options including organic, free-range, and plant-based meats.
• Regional culinary traditions influence specific meat preferences, supporting demand for traditional and premium products.

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Market Growth Factors

The Europe meat market is significantly propelled by rising consumer demand for protein-rich diets, which is a staple feature in European households. The increasing consumer preference for leaner meat options, such as poultry, aligns with trends toward health-conscious eating, encouraging balanced nutrition and tastier food choices. Furthermore, growing food service sectors contribute to the expanding demand for diverse and convenient meat products.

Technological advancements in meat processing and packaging have played a pivotal role in advancing the market. These include innovations that extend product shelf life, enhance quality and safety, and improve cold chain logistics. Improved logistics ensure more consistent availability of fresh and frozen meat products across Europe, reducing waste and supporting the rise of ready-to-cook and ready-to-eat meals that cater to urban lifestyles.

The rise in popularity of sustainable and ethical meat products is another key growth driver. Consumers increasingly prioritize organic, free-range, and ethically sourced meats due to environmental and animal welfare concerns. This has fueled growth in cultivated and plant-based meat alternatives, expanding the range of offerings to meet diverse consumer values. Investments and innovations by startups and established companies alike support this shift, creating new market opportunities aligned with sustainability goals.

Market Segmentation

Type:

• Raw: Raw meat holds a significant market share owing to traditional consumption, versatility in cooking, and strong regional and cultural eating traditions. Advances in cold chain logistics and packaging ensure its availability across retail channels.
• Processed: Processed meat leads due to convenience, longer shelf life, and the popularity of ready-to-eat and fast-food items such as sausages and cured meats, supported by urbanization and hectic lifestyles.

Product:

• Chicken: Dominant product due to affordability, versatility, and health appeal as a lean protein, with rising demand for processed chicken products like nuggets.
• Beef: Holds substantial share for its premium quality, rich taste, and cultural significance, popular in gourmet meals and increasing demand for grass-fed and organic options.
• Pork: A cornerstone of the market, deeply embedded in regional diets and culinary traditions, including specialties like bratwurst and prosciutto in Germany, Spain, and Italy.

Distribution Channel:

• Supermarkets and Hypermarkets: Dominate due to extensive reach, diverse offerings of fresh, processed, organic, and plant-based meats, and use of advanced refrigeration and packaging technology.
• Departmental Stores: Cater mainly to urban consumers with convenience and variety, offering special sections for fresh and processed meats.
• Specialty Stores: Focus on premium, organic, and artisanal meats, appealing to niche, quality-conscious consumers with curated selections and expert advice.

Regional Insights

Germany is a dominant region within the Europe meat market, characterized by strong cultural traditions and high demand for sausages, pork, and processed meat. The market benefits from growing preferences for organic and free-range options among sustainability-conscious consumers. Technological advancements in processing and packaging uphold consistent quality and meet high food safety standards. Germany’s robust foodservice sector further supports a diverse demand for various meat products.

Recent Developments & News

In 2024, multiple significant developments shaped the market: In July, Meatly became the first company globally to receive regulatory clearance to sell cultivated meat for pet food in the UK. In September, Nosh.bio partnered with the zur Mühlen Group (part of Tönnies Group) to launch Koji Chunks clean-label products. Also in September, Barcelona’s Novameat secured €17.4 million in Series A funding for plant-based meat cuts. In November, Dutch startup Meatable received strategic investment from Betagro Ventures to advance its cultivated meat technology. In November, Danish Crown launched the premium brand Masterpiece 1887, and Tönnies Group rebranded as Premium Food Group.

Key Players

• Danish Crown
• Tönnies
• JBS
• Beyond Meat
• Planted
• Meatly

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