Jan 21, 2008 12:00 PM, By MATTHEW ENIS

Despite the prospect of a recession, 2008 could be a promising year to emphasize and invest in prepared-food departments By: By MATTHEW ENIS

Signs on the economic horizon look grim for many shoppers — the costs of gasoline and home heating have continued to rise this winter, unemployment is creeping back up in many parts of the country, inflation is at its highest point in 17 years, and many economists are forecasting a recession.

Yet for supermarket prepared-food departments, these challenges may present a rare opportunity. Many chains have spent the past several years focusing on consistency and quality in an effort to compete with restaurants. And, when times become tight, consumer demand for convenience won't vanish overnight. Shoppers will be taking a new look at the take-home options available at their local supermarket, which many already view as more convenient and less expensive than their local restaurants.

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