This report examines the development of the lunch foods market in the UK. The report is set within the context of Mintel's exclusive consumer research, which examines the time spent on lunch, what is eaten and general attitudes towards eating at midday. Results show that comparatively few adults eat their main meal at lunchtime, and it is most common to spend less than half an hour over weekday lunch.

Mintel values this market at £6 billion in 2001 with a 2% annual increase in sales at current prices. In real terms, however, the market has produced very little growth over the last half-decade. Most of the sectors that make up the lunch foods market are traditional and mature, exhibiting little growth over time. Promotional activity and new product development comprise the main areas of market stimulation.

In light of the current high level of employment in the UK, and the trend towards taking relatively short lunch breaks, Mintel expects demand for healthy and convenient foods for lunchtime eating to increase. The challenge for suppliers is to produce innovative sandwich fillings, and to offer an alternative this to popular lunchtime food.

Other Mintel reports of relevance include:

- Bacon and Delicatessen Meats, Market Intelligence, October 2001

- Cheese, Market Intelligence, September 2001

- Appetisers and Dips, Market Intelligence, August 2001

- Noodles, Market Intelligence, July 2001

- Sandwiches, Leisure Intelligence, July 2001

- Sweet Spreads, Market Intelligence, April 2001

- Morning Goods, Market Intelligence, March 2001

- Sausages and Meat Pies, Market Intelligence, March 2001

- Savoury Spreads, Market Intelligence, March 2001

- Bread, Market Intelligence, February 2001

- Soup, Market Intelligence, August 2000

- Fish, Market Intelligence, September 2000.