IGD: Plant-based options ‘definitely gaining' higher profile on menu boards in London
The company also highlighted two other trends and development to learn from in the capital.
Whilst all Londoners have not turned vegan, plant-based options are gaining a higher profile on menu boards and chiller shelves across the city, according to market research company IGD.
“Pret and M&S are great examples of how generalist food-to-go players have been strengthening their focus on this area, while at the same time, recent reports suggest Greggs is poised to expand its range, following the tremendous success it has had with the launch of the vegan sausage roll at the start of 2019,” IGD said in a post on their website, also noting that US plant-based specialist by CHLOE now has four branches in the capital.
IGD also observed the “rapid” growth of food halls. “ Arcade Kitchen, at Centre Point, has been followed up very rapidly by the Seven Dials Market, from the founders of Kerb street food, located close to Covent Garden. At the same time, a new Market Hall will open on Oxford Street before the end of the year, complementing its two existing sites,” IGD said.
As more operators look to target the food-to-go space, the company says this is driving continuing innovation and experimentation, citing French bakery chain PAUL’s Express concept as an example.
“At the same time, Co-op has opened a Co-op On the go concept close to Fenchurch Street, very much focused around on the move needs. This is one of just a handful of stores in this format across the country, building on the success of the first site in Manchester Piccadilly. All this points to considerable activity across a number of fronts in a London food-to-go market that continues to excite and inspire,” IGD said.
