Swiss Meat Demand Surges, Bell Carves Out Bigger Share
Swiss meat consumption is climbing again, boosting Bell’s sales, but supply challenges and import debates shape the market’s future.
Meat Makes a Comeback in Switzerland
After several years of shifting eating habits, meat is firmly back on Swiss plates. Per capita consumption has risen to over 58 kilograms a year — that’s more than a kilo per person each week. Poultry is leading the charge, with sales growing over 8% in the past year, according to industry group Proviande.
Bell’s Strong Performance
Bell, Switzerland’s largest meat processor and a subsidiary of Coop, has ridden this wave to impressive results. In the first half of 2025, the company grew its Swiss core business by 5.2%, reaching CHF 1.2 billion in sales. CEO Marco Tschanz says growth will likely continue into the second half of the year.
Tight Supply and Rising Prices
Despite strong demand, the supply of livestock is tight. Animal numbers across Europe are being reduced due to ongoing animal health concerns, driving prices upward. Globally, the supply situation remains constrained. Bell is addressing this by increasing in-house slaughtering and partnering more closely with farmers’ organizations.
Imports and Consumer Preferences
With Swiss meat production relatively flat, the country is leaning more on imports. Discussions about potential US beef quotas have resurfaced in light of possible trade agreements, but Swiss consumers remain wary — especially over animal welfare and antibiotic use. Tschanz notes that past attempts to introduce US beef haven’t gone over well.
Outlook: Appetite Still Growing
Global demand for protein is expected to keep rising, and Swiss consumers are showing no signs of turning away from meat. For Bell, the challenge will be securing enough supply to match this renewed appetite.
Source: https://www.bluewin.ch/en/news/bell-benefits-from-growing-meat-market-in-switzerland-2823395.html