The Q4 2025 Commodity Market Report highlights rising fish prices this quarter, falling dairy and cocoa, and seasonal ingredient opportunities across the UK, Ireland and Continental Europe. Learn practical strategies to manage costs, optimise menus, and leverage winter produce.
Introduction
Healthcare, hospitality and education operators across the UK, Ireland and Continental Europe continue to face volatility in commodity prices, driven by global supply chain pressures, climate impacts, and ongoing cost-of-living challenges. These market conditions are placing increased pressure on food budgets, menu planning, and operational margins.
Our Q4 2025 Commodity Market Report provides practical, actionable insights for chefs, procurement teams, and foodservice operators. Drawing on impartial research, along with insights from our supply chain and culinary team of experts, the report highlights current market trends, category performance, and strategies to manage costs effectively.
Market overview – UK, Continental Europe & Ireland Q4 2025
Commodity prices continue to fluctuate across these regions. In the UK and Ireland, the most notable movements include:
Haddock: +69.2%
Cod: +30.4%
Dairy(Milk, Cheddar, Butter): -30% to -50%
Cocoa: -30%
In our Continental Europe markets, cocoa prices are also down by 30%, while milk and butter have decreased quarter over quarter. Fish, including cod, salmon, and tuna, are rising, alongside eggs, creating both challenges and opportunities for menu planning.
Global supply chain pressures, climate-related production risks, and economic factors continue to drive volatility, making proactive procurement and menu strategy critical.
Prioritise Local & Seasonal: Use root vegetables, brassicas, and winter fruits to enhance flavour and reduce transport costs.
Plant-Forward Options: Root vegetables and brassicas are ideal for vegetarian or vegan dishes.
Explore Game & Alternative Proteins: Pheasant, venison, duck, and guinea fowl add variety and sustainable sourcing opportunities.
Seasonal Fruits: Clementines, blood oranges, pears, and apples can be incorporated into desserts, sauces, salads, and baked goods.
Balance Flavours & Costs: Combine seasonal vegetables, affordable cuts of meat, and sustainable seafood to keep menus profitable and appealing.
By working with seasonal ingredients, operators can maintain menu quality, control costs, and support sustainable sourcing.
Download the complete report
Download the full Q4 2025 Commodity Market Report for detailed market updates, category trends, and winter menu planning insights to optimise costs and showcase seasonal ingredients.
