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It is clear that the COVID-19 pandemic has changed the landscape of consumer eating habits with takeaways, meal kits and grocery boxes experiencing a huge rise in sales and we’re seeing no signs of this slowing down.

Meal kit providers, HelloFresh and Gousto deliver recipe cards and corresponding ingredients organised into pre-packed portions directly to doorsteps. With the click of a button, these online services allow consumers to choose from a range of inspirational recipes, allowing consumers to re-create their favourite dishes without having to leave the house. Experts say that the success of these businesses is purely down to the fact that more people are working from home and experiencing “cooking fatigue”, and that they are looking for something a little more “adventurous” to replicate the global flavours they would usually find in restaurants.

Reports state that between July and September, HelloFresh sales hit €970 million, 120% up on the same period last year, while the number of orders increased by 114% to 19.5 million. The groups Chief Executive, Dominik Richter said that the pandemic has accelerated a “profound change in behaviour” that is expected to last well beyond any virus-related restrictions. He also said “it has forced people into online adoption, and the kind of adoption we might have seen in three years, we have now seen in six months”.

Doing what they do best, many chefs have been seen to adapt to the changing environment in a very similar way. MasterChef champion, Simon Wood, owner of “WOOD” Manchester, “WOOD” Chester and “WOODKRAFT” Cheltenham, has been offering his “wood at home” online delivery service throughout the pandemic. Simon currently offers a five course tasting menu for two, comprising all the pre-prepared ingredients needed, with full cooking and plating instructions. Wines recommended by his sommelier can also be ordered, ensuring a customer has everything they need for a very special "night out meal at home". Simon has described this menu as being “incredibly popular”, stating it’s very important to recognise the customers that are not able to dine out due to the restrictions, or because they do not feel safe to do so.

It is clear that there has also been a spike in demand for takeaway services, with customers swapping their meals out, for meals in front of the TV. Consumers have been seeking convenience more than ever before, turning to online services and apps including “Just Eat”, “Deliveroo” and “UberEats”, paying for meals at the click of a button. Out of 567 respondents, 36% consumers in the UK have shown strong support for their local pubs, bars, restaurants and cafes during the Coronavirus pandemic, by utilising their takeaway or delivery services.

How have you adapted to suit the change in consumer behaviour, or as a customer, what are your habits when meal planning or when choosing a takeaway? Find us on social media.

Sources:
https://www.ft.com/content/d3de9fd2-40fd-4d7f-9da5-b68317617112
https://woodrestaurantgroup.com/wood-at-home
https://www.statista.com/statistics/1118667/consumer-support-for-bars-and-restaurants-during-coronavirus-uk/