Meat wholesalers, grocery retailers, and food service firms are becoming fewer In number but larger In size. Direct sales from packer to retailer are decreasing the number of meat wholesalers. The growth of boxed beef is contributing to the shift to more direct sales from packer to retailer. Away-from-home consumption of red meat Is increasing slowly In relation to at-home consumption. Chains are gradually taking more of the grocery retailing and food service industry market. Fast food outlets are the fastest growing segment of the food service industry