What 2023 has in store for UK’s food industry

Cost pressures and sustainability are just a few factors affecting consumer behaviour this year.

Given the cost of living crisis, supply and labour shortages, the demand for eating out still remains strong with 45% of consumers saying that eating out is a fundamental activity for them, according to a report by Bidfood in collaboration with CGA by NielsenIQ.

In fact, two in three UK adults said that despite the cost of living pressures, they would still find it difficult to stop eating or drinking out.

2023 trends

In Bidfood’s report, several trends have risen that would impact consumer behaviour starting with consumers being more conscious about where they want to eat and drink.

Health has now become a top of mind for consumers. With the UK’s calorie labelling law, 41% said this is a positive step towards improving the nation’s health whilst 22% said this will negatively impact people’s relationship with food. However, this just shows that many consumers have become increasingly aware of the calories they consume which are influencing consumer behaviour towards eating out.

One in two UK adults would change their meal choices if they perceived it to have too many calories. Out of these people, one in three would choose a smaller portion. 23% would opt to share the dish with someone else. Meanwhile, if given the choice, three in 10 people would choose a lower-calorie version of the same dish.

Though most UK adults have said they would find it difficult to not eat and drink out, costs is still impacting sales for food restaurant operators. 53% of UK adults said they would try to eat out less than before whilst 48% would try to minimise drinking out. 49% have said they are spending less on eating and drinking compared to last year.

72% of consumers said price is now a priority for them whenever they eat out

Meanwhile, more consumers are paying more attention to labels on menus and are looking for food and drinks that are better for the environment.

In Bidfood’s research, 61% of fish eaters said that it’s important for them that the fish and seafood they eat are sustainable whilst 51% have said they will pay more to know that the fish they are eating are sustainably sourced.

53% of consumers will also be more likely to order a meal if they see an OF&G Organic symbol on the menu whilst 52% are more likely to order a meal with a Green Palm symbol on it.