KANSAS CITY, MO. – Retailers and their producer partners are investing more in portion-cut meat and poultry programs, in response to consumer demand for products that meet ever-evolving budget, health and other needs.

Creekstone Farms has expanded its capabilities over the years through advanced equipment, packaging innovations and the addition of new brands and private label offerings.

In April, those innovations included adding new portion-cut capabilities and products.

In addition to a ground beef expansion project exceeding $20 million, Creekstone Farms introduced new portion-cut machinery that can be precisely calibrated to any order specification, including thickness and weight, said Reid Swanson, director of retail sales.

“Demand is increasing [for portion-cut],” he said. “Retailers need dependable, skilled labor solutions and operational efficiency and consistency in portioning.”

Creekstone’s portion-cut retail lineup features the following products for retail: Creekstone Farms Black Angus Beef (Choice/Prime), Creekstone Farms Natural Black Angus Beef (Choice/Prime), Irodori by Creekstone Farms American Wagyu and Creekstone Farms Natural Heritage Duroc Pork.

Swanson said it’s a lineup designed to fit every meat case and to meet every customer expectation with flexible portion-cutting capabilities, multiple packaging formats, and full merchandising support.

Middle meats remain a very popular choice in portion-cut, he added. Creekstone Farms is also seeing a growing adoption of chuck and thin meat items in pre-portioned packaging.

Wagyu and tomahawk demand also remain strong, and the industry is tracking increased interest in short ribs as cooler weather nears.

Creekstone Farms is focused on providing value-driven cuts that ensure customers are getting a quality product at a reasonable price point.

Creekstone Farms stands out in the industry, Swanson said, by sourcing premium Black Angus cattle and maintaining strict USDA-certified, hormone and antibiotic-free programs.

With humane handling practices, full traceability, and a strong brand narrative, the company delivers consistent quality and a premium dining experience trusted by retailers, chefs and global markets, he added.

“We also have a strategic proximity to major markets, allowing us to connect directly with retailers, chefs and consumers,” Swanson said.

Despite industry-wide negative margins, Creekstone ownership continues to invest in the future.

“Commitment to excellence remains central to our mission,” Swanson said. “Retail and club channels represent a new frontier, and we are excited to build awareness in those markets.”

What shoppers are looking for

Rastelli Foods Group’s Preferred steak line is built around the cuts retailers know their shoppers are looking for: Ribeyes, New York Strips and Filet Mignon.

Every steak is perfectly portioned to deliver consistency, a premium presentation and strong value for the retailer, said Ray Rastelli Jr., the company’s founder.

“The Power of Meat tells us that 96% of consumers are willing to spend a little more on meat for the right occasion, and that’s exactly where a premium steak program can help retailers stand out,” he said.

Rastelli Foods Group has always believed premium quality comes first. But today’s shopper, Rastelli said, expects more. Retailers need the right portion sizes, packaging and price points to fit everything from a weeknight dinner to a special occasion.

The company has expanded the Rastelli Preferred line to give its retail partners that flexibility, while delivering the consistency the brand is known for.

Rastelli Foods Group’s retail partners tell the company that they need products that are easy to merchandise, help reduce shrink and give shoppers confidence every time they buy.

“That’s driven improvements in our packaging, portion sizes and overall program,” Rastelli said. “At the end of the day, if we make life easier for the retailer and deliver a great eating experience, everybody wins.”

Rastelli Preferred Ribeyes, New York Strips and Filets continue to be among the company’s strongest performers.

Premium steak has always been a destination category, Rastelli said, and beef continues to lead the fresh meat department. When retailers offer consistent quality, shoppers come back for it.

Consumers are balancing value with indulgence, Rastelli said. They still want that premium steak experience, but they also want options that fit different budgets and occasions. That’s why Rastelli Foods Group has expanded the Rastelli Preferred program with multiple portion sizes and cuts. It gives retailers more flexibility while helping manage shrink and improve the overall meat case.

The meat department continues to be one of the strongest drivers in the supermarket, and premium beef is a big reason why, Rastelli said.

Refrigerated meat reached a record $104.6 billion in sales last year, with 98% of US households purchasing meat.

More consumers are choosing to recreate restaurant-quality meals at home, and premium steaks continue to be one of the best ways retailers can capture that business.

Anybody can talk about quality, Rastelli said. What separates Rastelli Foods Group is consistency and partnership.

“We work hard to source the right product, portion it correctly and deliver it the same way every time,” he said. “Our retail partners know they can count on us, not just for great steaks, but for a program that helps them build a premium meat department while managing labor and shrink.”

Retailers have a real opportunity to grow the premium steak category. The Power of Meat found that 58% of consumers are interested in trying more cuts if retailers make the decision easier.

“That’s what the Rastelli Preferred line is all about: giving retailers a premium, consistent program that builds shopper confidence,” Rastelli said.

Andy Nelson is the managing editor of Supermarket Perimeter and bake. He has worked at Sosland since 2017, covering grocery fresh departments. He is a graduate of St. John's College, Annapolis, MD.

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