When it comes to the foodservice market, quality food is what stimulates the British appetite. However, this comes against a background of an ingrained expectation of promotions and a cautious mindset, putting operators in a challenging position. Standout dishes that diners can’t/don’t make at home remain key to driving footfall.

Casual dining can offer new revenue streams for operators, as extended ranges of snacking options and all-day breakfast/brunch menus spark widespread demand. Grab-and-go can also hold opportunities, however, undercutting restaurant prices and offering functional takeaway packaging are key to unlocking these.

In this Report, Mintel investigates the factors affecting consumers’ decision-making process with regards to foodservice venues. The scope of this Report is the eating out market within the UK, including eating in, ordering home delivery/takeaway.

The respondents were also asked about grab-and go-food, defined as “Grab-and-go food and drink is designed to be portable and suitable for eating/drinking away from the venue (eg on-the-go, at work etc). This type of food can typically be eaten straight from the container or wrapper in which it is sold without further preparation. These can include sushi boxes, hot soup in a pot/tub, hot pies, sandwiches/wraps etc.”