UK food and beverage trends and insights: 2024
The FMCG sector in the United Kingdom continues to evolve rapidly, with shifting consumer preferences, innovative brand strategies and economic pressures shaping the landscape. From beverages to snacks, , 2024 highlights trends that demand agility and insight from industry players.
UK’s food choices in 2024
Understanding consumer eating habits is crucial for food, beverage and lifestyle companies that are navigating the landscape of dietary choices and seeking to engage people who follow specific diets. While flexitarian, vegetarian and vegan diets continue to gain ground, a meat-heavy diet is still the most common option in both the US (62%) and the UK (67%).
But when it comes to buying foods, what is the factor that matters most to UK consumers – price or freshness? That is the question YouGov Surveys data answers in this piece. Freshness certainly is a major determinant, and food quality labels can be an indicator of the same, so how much emphasis do consumers place on these food safety and food quality labels when making their purchases? We also look at the types of snacks do consumers enjoy. Alongside insights into how consumers choose food and snacks for themselves, we also examined the factors that go into deciding on buying food-based gifts for others.
Sober insights into the booze industry
Our coverage of the alcohol industry began at the start of the year with the aptly named Ginuary in a piece examining where the drink ranks among Britons’ favourite beverages and the characteristics that set gin drinkers apart.
We also used YouGov BrandIndex to examine the potential of the Guinness tie-up with the Premier League.
Ahead of the Holidays, we cast another look at Brits’ beverage preferences.
Other insights
- UK consumer loyalty tested: Who wins?
- Cadbury’s shrinking Animals had a not-so-sweet impact on its brand perceptions
- Where does 'British made' factor in grocery shoppers’ food preferences
- British consumers’ views of unhealthy foods and why they continue to eat them
- Should “meaty” language be used for plant-based products in Britain?