Overview
The U.S. Dairy Export Council (USDEC), established by Dairy Management Inc., plays a pivotal role in expanding international markets for U.S. dairy producers. As a membership-based organisation representing farmers, processors, exporters, and industry suppliers, USDEC is dedicated to creating robust, data-driven strategies to increase U.S. dairy exports.
In pursuit of this mission, USDEC commissioned Foley & Associates to deliver comprehensive market research focused on the Australian pizza cheese sector—a key growth area for U.S. dairy products. The goal was to uncover current and future market dynamics and to identify actionable strategies to increase U.S. market share in Australia.
The Challenge
Australia represents both an opportunity and a challenge for U.S. cheese exporters. While the market for pizza cheese is growing, it is also complex, shaped by evolving consumer trends, established local producers, and tight import regulations. USDEC needed a partner that could provide not only detailed analysis but also nuanced understanding of Australia’s retail and foodservice landscapes.
The Solution
Foley worked closely with USDEC to ensure the research aligned with the needs of their diverse member base. This involved deep consultation to understand product specifications, manufacturing capabilities, and competitive positioning.
The final report—confidential but referenced here—featured a detailed analysis of the Australian pizza cheese market, including:
Market size, growth trends, and forecasts
Volume and value estimates
Pricing dynamics and supply chain analysis
Market segmentation and share by product type
Consumer trends and end-user requirements
Regulatory considerations and access conditions
Strategic recommendations tailored for U.S. exporters
To support the report, Foley conducted a multi-faceted field research process:
Interviews with buyers, importers, distributors, and major retailers
Site visits to Fine Food Australia, Australia’s leading food trade exhibition
In-store product benchmarking in national supermarket chains and pizza outlets
Collaboration with the Australian Bureau of Statistics, DFAT, and other key government agencies
Industry association and publication interviews to validate data and trends
Results and Impact
The report produced by Foley was included in USDEC’s global cheese strategy portfolio and informed broader international decision-making. As a result of the quality and insight delivered, Foley was retained for an additional research assignment, this time focusing on in-depth competitor analysis and price comparisons across multiple Costco locations in major Australian cities.
The continued engagement reflected not only the credibility of Foley’s insights but also the practical value of their on-the-ground execution and strategic recommendations.
Conclusion
For U.S. dairy exporters seeking to expand into Australia, market intelligence is critical—but so is trusted, local expertise. Foley’s collaboration with USDEC demonstrates how a rigorous research-led approach can uncover market potential, clarify distribution pathways, and position U.S. companies for long-term success in a highly competitive sector.
Interested in exploring the Australian food and beverage market? Contact us to see how we can help turn data into opportunity.
