The predicted behaviour has arisen from changing consumer behaviours following the coronavirus pandemic, lockdown and social distancing measures, Bidfood said ahead of its Christmas range launch this week.
Yet, unlike previous years, the survey’s results showed consumers will be seeking traditional Christmas food rather than experimental dishes, with 26% of those asked saying they desired a Christmas meal that “upholds true British tradition”.
Not a year for fancy innovation
“The research illustrates that really, this isn’t a year for fancy product innovation, but instead, that in these uncertain times, many of us are looking for touches of comfort to make us feel good,” said the company.
Of the research, Bidfood head of insights Lucy Pedrick said: “48% of consumers ranked ‘feeling safe’ as their top priority when dining this year, so it is important for operators to blend good food and drink, with a safe environment to create a memorable experience.
“Now supplying direct to consumer, Bidfood’s offering this year has been designed with both operators and consumers in mind, acknowledging the increasing concerns of the general public amidst the Coronavirus pandemic.”
However, rising needs for dishes that cater to various dietary requirements still remain, said Pedrick, who also added the company would be ensuring sustainability remained part of Bidfood’s offering, citing a sustainable Christmas cracker range.
Some of Bidfood’s Christmas range this year includes:
- Pumpkin Mac Cheese Bites
- Whitby Bobble Jumbo Red Shrimp
- Goats Cheese Soufflé
- Vegan Wellington Slice
- Farmstead Individual Turkey Paupiette with Cumberland, Cranberry and Apricot Stuffing
- Farmstead Pheasant Sausages
- Farmstead Pork, Cranberry and Apricot Sausages
- Red Cabbage with Apples, Red Currants and Spices
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