The window of opportunity is highlighted in the Summer edition of the ‘Lynx Purchasing Market Forecast’, an overview of market and pricing trends for hospitality operators.
The UK Retail Price Index stood at 3.1% in May 2012, down from 3.5% in April and the lowest since December 2009.
John Pinder, Lynx Purchasing managing director, said: “The utilities market is always volatile, as political and economic factors can change the outlook quickly, but currently we are getting some very good deals for customers willing to commit to multi-year utility contracts.”
Lynx is also warning that caterers face higher costs for menu staples such as burgers and sausages. Pinder added: “As our latest Market Forecast highlights, behind the headline inflation figures, there are key products such as meat which are still seeing sharp price high increases.
“Along with prime cuts, the cost of beef and pork trim used for products such as sausages, burgers and pies has been going up steadily. These are widely served across the sector, not only in pubs and restaurants, but also in areas such as education. When the key suppliers publish their Autumn price lists, many operators will face the stark choice of raising prices or taking a hit on margins.
“We’ll be monitoring supplier prices carefully to ensure that operators buying from suppliers at prices negotiated by Lynx are getting the best possible deals on food and consumables.”
For a copy of the latest ‘Lynx Purchasing Market Forecast’ visit: http://www.lynxpurchasing.co.uk