In November 2023, demand for red caviar within the Perekrestok retail chain surged by 130% compared with the same month a year earlier, according to the retailer group’s official brief. This reflects a notable shift in consumer interest toward premium seafood products during the autumn season.
The upward trend extended to caviar from several salmon species, including pink salmon, sockeye salmon, chum salmon, coho salmon, and to the Karelia region’s trout varieties. This broadening of preference indicates a sustained appetite for diverse salmon-based delicacies among shoppers in the chain’s network.
Alongside caviar, chilled fish sales rose sharply, by 56% in November 2023 versus November 2022. Demand for smoked fish also climbed, registering a 43% increase. These gains suggest that consumers are prioritizing both ready-to-eat smoked options and fresh seafood items as part of their regular shopping baskets.
The most requested species remained salmon, trout, and coho salmon, collectively accounting for more than seven-tenths of the total fresh fish volume sold. Trout, in particular, saw standout demand, capturing about half of all trout-related sales. This indicates a strong preference for its versatility and flavor among buyers.
Overall, fish products represented a growing share of Perekrestok’s turnover, rising to 4.6%. Meat and poultry followed, at 4.2% and 4.0% respectively. The press release noted that the majority of the assortment is sourced from domestic suppliers across the Far East, Murmansk, Karelia, and neighboring regions. Some fresh fish are also imported from Turkey, underscoring a blended supply strategy to meet seasonal demand and maintain product variety.
Analysts noted potential price dynamics toward the year-end, with expectations of a possible easing in fish prices in Russia leading into the New Year, as observed in late November estimates. This anticipated trend could influence both consumer purchasing behavior and retailer planning for the upcoming holiday period.
In parallel, questions have circulated about distinguishing natural red caviar from substitutes or counterfeit products. Shoppers are advised to look for clear labeling, verification marks from trusted producers, and consistent color and texture as practical indicators of authenticity. This guidance aims to help consumers enjoy high-quality imports and domestically produced caviar with confidence.
[citation: official brief from the retailer group and market analysts]