GlobalData : Conagra’s job postings spike amid increasing at-home consumption

30 Nov 2020
Conagra's job postings spike amid increasing at-home consumption Posted in Business Fundamentals

Conagra's active jobs increased from over 200 in April to around 400 in October 2020, according to the Job Analytics database by leading data and analytics company, GlobalData - with hiring inclined towards production facilities and meeting supply chain requirements. As demand for a more diet-conscious market is shaping consumption patterns, Conagra is strengthening its single-serve meals and snacks portfolio, which contributed the most sales for the quarter ending August 2020, according to the company's Q1 2021 earnings release.

Sumit Chopra, Director of Consumer Research at GlobalData, says: 'Health is a leading priority for consumers, and this concern has been especially heightened during the COVID-19 pandemic. With social distancing, working from home and reduced opportunities for on-the-go consumption and exercise, health-positioned snacking products are an obvious choice to meet consumers' health needs.'

Conagra was able to absorb a sudden spike in at-home demand, with little disruptions in times of the COVID-19 lockdowns, by increasing its spends on health and safety protocols. Over 500 jobs were posted in June to keep pace with the demand, with personnel working in shifts, round-the-clock. Conagra also posted jobs to manage supply logistics and procurement schedules. Some of the key senior-level job postings include Director, Project Management Office; Director Procurement - Proteins; Director, Business Planning (Walmart and Sam's); Director, Supply Chain and Director and Talent Acquisition.

Ajay Thalluri, Business Fundamentals Analyst at GlobalData, says: 'Conagra is strengthening its inventory management while adding space for new products. Most of the recent launches are aimed at consumers' preference for healthy food and this is likely to continue to weigh heavily on Conagra's hiring trend.'

Sumit adds: 'With these unique conditions spurring concerns over nutrition and existing lifestyle-related diseases such as obesity and diabetes, there will be greater focus on holistic health, value for money via a subscription model and ecommerce moving forward. Conagra's hiring strategy in 2020 is reflective of its focus on these trends and it is expected to be instrumental in driving new product innovation.'