The revival of the butcher

Perth used to have a local butcher in every suburb, maybe a couple of independent butcher shops in each area until about the early 1980s when the large supermarket chains forced them out of business.

We are now seeing a revival of the independent Butcher, at the very least, the supermarkets are being forced to lift their game and provide better options. Consumers are demanding more choice, better quality, a more extensive range and higher levels of service.

With more competition, the supermarkets are under pressure to meet consumer expectations and are investing heavily to maintain market share. Forgetting about the convenience of purchasing all their goods from a single retailer, consumers are avoiding the large shopping centers for more frequent smaller purchases.

No longer are consumers engaging in large weekly shopping habits, they now quickly drop down the local shops for small purchases on the way home from work. They want fresh and healthy and shops providing pre-prepared ingredients are winning back consumers.

This is where the local butcher is able to gain business, excellent cuts of meat, pre-prepared and marinated options that are ready to cook are gaining customers. Fast to react, quality products and personal service are making a comeback - great news.