Lunchtime in the UK is undergoing a transformation as consumers increasingly seek out diverse and exciting food options. While sandwiches have been the traditional go-to, street food is rapidly gaining popularity among supermarket customers. This shift is driven by changing consumer preferences, health considerations, and the desire for convenience. Here’s why street food, particularly handheld snacks like samosas, is becoming the go-to choice for supermarket customers.
Changing Consumer Preferences
The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted the sandwich market, which was valued at approximately £8 billion pre-pandemic. Although the market has rebounded to 85% of its former value, many consumers are looking for alternatives to traditional sandwiches as they adapt to new work patterns, including remote working and flexible office hours. According to a 2022 MealTrak survey, while 29% of consumers enjoy sandwiches at home, only 25% still consume them at work. This change has opened the door for more diverse food options, such as street food, which offer exciting Mexican or Peri-Peri flavours and convenient formats.
The Appeal of Handheld Snacks
Street food and handheld brings a vibrant variety to the lunchtime menu. Snacks like samosas are particularly appealing due to their convenience and portability. These snacks are easy to eat on the go, making them perfect for busy lifestyles. These snacks are not only rich in flavour but also cater to various dietary needs, such as vegetarian and halal, making them accessible to a wider audience. The rise of street food in supermarkets aligns with consumers’ desire for quick, tasty, and diverse meal options that break the monotony of traditional sandwiches.
Health and Ethical Considerations
Modern consumers are more health-conscious and ethically aware, with over a third of purchase decisions influenced by health or ethical considerations. The demand for vegetarian and halal options is growing, reflecting a broader trend towards healthier eating and ethical food sourcing. Street food items like samosas fit well within this trend, offering a nutritious and ethical alternative to meat-heavy sandwiches. This shift is supported by the increasing popularity of plant-based and halal foods in the UK market.
Convenience and Accessibility
One of the significant advantages of street food is its convenience. Ready-to-eat options like samosas are perfect for busy individuals who need a quick yet satisfying meal. Supermarkets are responding to this demand by stocking a variety of street food products that cater to different tastes and dietary requirements. The convenience of grabbing a pack of samosas or a spicy wrap makes these items ideal for on-the-go consumption, further boosting their popularity.
Supporting Data and Market Trends
The trend towards street food is supported by robust market data. The sandwich market, despite its partial recovery, is facing stiff competition from wraps and other street food items, which have increased their market share from 8.2% to 11.1%. Furthermore, the popularity of samosas and similar snacks is on the rise globally. For instance, the samosa market in India is projected to reach a $750 million opportunity by 2025, reflecting a growing appetite for these traditional snacks.
The rise of street food as a lunchtime choice is a reflection of changing consumer preferences, health and ethical considerations, and the need for convenience. Products like samosas offer a tasty, convenient, and healthy alternative to traditional sandwiches, making them an attractive option for supermarket customers. As the lunchtime market continues to evolve, street food is set to become an even more prominent choice for UK consumers, providing a delicious and diverse array of options to satisfy their midday cravings.
For those looking to explore the exciting world of street food, items like samosas are readily available at major supermarkets, offering a convenient and flavourful lunchtime solution.
