Consumer demand for healthy products has been good news for the juices and waters categories. In juices they get natural ingredients which, in some cases, count towards that healthy Holy Grail - the 'five-a-day' - while in water they get calorie-free rehydration. Yes, juices are full of sugar but often they are naturally-occurring sugars. And yes tap water is cheaper than bottled but it doesn't always taste the same and it's not always easy to access - especially when you are out and about.

There are a range of healthier options in the cakes and biscuits market, while they also remain a treat that consumers are happy to indulge in. If they are making the choice to treat themselves less, they want it to be a good treat when they get it.

Introducing new regulations restricting the selling or use of tobacco seems to be becoming an annual event, but campaigners warn the latest proposals will do serious harm to many independent retailers' businesses and therefore the wholesalers who supply them.

Household and toiletry products remain a key category with high household penetration and named brands each striving to provide the next innovation.

Premium cider remains the star of the take home beer and cider category, following up two years of spectacular growth with a +70% performance in 2007, but beer still dominates in terms of sales and volume, and accounts for 62.3% of independent stores' alcohol sales. All the big brewers and cider makers promote the importance of independent retailers chilling their products so they can be consumed immediately, and if the sun shines this summer that can only grow in importance.

While snacking and eating on the go is fast becoming the norm, some consumers are still opting for breakfast at home. Here health and convenience are key trends as consumers look for a quick energy boost before work.