Recently, the domestic bread market has been characterized by a decrease in its production. According to some experts, the main reason for this is not at all a decrease in its consumption by the population.
The fact is that along with traditional types of these products, some companies have mastered the technology and launched the production of frozen bread. The volume of the Russian market in this area several years ago amounted to about six hundred billion US dollars, and its annual growth rate is about 25 percent.
Many consumers have not yet taken this kind of bakery products seriously and prefer the well-known products of combines and factories. Along with this, one cannot but note the trend towards a gradual change in this situation.
The concept of frozen bread semi-finished products
In a few words, then frozen bakery products are products that were previously frozen to a temperature of 18 degrees below zero. There are two main groups of such products.
The first of them includes raw billets (they are not subjected to preliminary partial baking), and the second includes partially baked products (frozen or chilled, but ready-made). Regardless of the type, all processed foods can be produced from any type of flour: rye, wheat or a mixture thereof.
When using the first method, frozen bread must first thaw. After this, the semi-finished product is placed in a proofer, where the dough is suitable, and then baked. It should be noted that this method is cheaper.
In the second case, to prepare the product, it is necessary to place it in the combi oven for a period of 10-30 minutes. After that, it is ready for use. Unfired bakery products before serving on the table simply enough to heat in the oven or microwave.
Market appearance
France was the first country to start the production of frozen bread almost thirty years ago. It was from there at the beginning of this century that they began to bring it to our country. Almost all modern production technologies for these products were developed in the United States, where such a business is very well developed.
As of today, the share of frozen bread in the European market ranges from 80 to 90 percent, while in Russia it is only 10 percent. The result of this indicator is that from year to year more and more entrepreneurs are thinking about starting such type of entrepreneurial activity as the manufacture and sale of frozen bread.
Necessary investment in the project
Starting investments here are quite impressive. To open a bakery requires an amount of about two million US dollars. In addition, for the start, it is necessary to equip a point that will be engaged in the sale and heating of frozen products. Do not forget about the wages of staff and the costs of freezing and storage.
On the other hand, the production of frozen bread also has significant advantages over other types of this type of product. In this case, we are talking about the fact that the losses from such phenomena as the return of unsold goods, as well as surges and failures of demand are leveled.
Manufacturing technology
Most of all, the quality of future bakery products depends on how well the dough is kneaded. In this regard, its preparation is considered key in the entire process. In order to ensure good baking outside and inside the product, it is recommended to first loosen it. Fermentation of the dough provides a porous crumb to future bakery products, and full compliance with the technology of mixing and proportions - their excellent taste.
The next step is to divide the dough into pieces, which is made in specially designed machines for this. Separate installations also exist for rounding the shape of the products. Further, according to the technological process, for 5-10 minutes the dough should be traced. Only after this does the freezing process begin. There are two of its methods, as already noted above.
Sales of finished products
Depending on the class, the margin, which is set by manufacturers on such products, ranges from 5 to 50 percent. At the same time, the lion's share of finished products belongs to the low price segment. Most Russian companies from the very beginning began to prefer the sale of frozen bread through catering establishments (cafes and restaurants), rather than retailers. This tactic can be called correct, since when a certain volume of turnover is reached, opening a separate bakery becomes profitable.
Domestic market of frozen bread
Many experts predict that in the near future, the bread business using frozen semi-finished products in our country will only grow (up to 50% annually). It should be borne in mind that about five major players in this direction are currently operating on the domestic market.
Their total share is 50%. Moreover, there are about ten other companies with 35% of the market in their hands. Thus, this niche is not yet completely filled. This gives every reason to establish their own production and sales. To open your own business, you need to register as a private entrepreneur or legal entity and register with the tax service.
Business profitability
Experienced market participants argue that the production of frozen bread in terms of profitability is in no way inferior to the well-known bakery products that can be found on store shelves. The retail price of finished bakery products is currently regulated by the state.
And this is against the background of a constant rise in price of raw materials and other expenses. As for the cost of frozen products, it depends solely on the market situation, so they are more expensive. Despite this, the demand for them is not decreasing, as modern consumers increasingly prefer quality.
