Food Delivery Trends and Predictions for 2024-2028
16th October 2024
Insight from the latest edition of the Krumb tells us that the UK foodservice delivery and takeaway market is on a tasty path, with plenty of growth and resilience expected in the coming years. Foodservice is dynamic and is evolving in a positive direction that will have plenty for both operators and consumers to look forward to.
First, let’s set the table: the UK foodservice delivery and takeaway market reached a whopping £31.58 billion in 2023, showing a solid 5% year-over-year growth. Even as we move past the pandemic boom, it’s clear that delivery and takeaway have become a staple in British daily life.
2024 | Value
As we close out 2024, economic pressures are continuing to change how people think about their dining choices. While delivery and takeaway are still popular, they’re increasingly seen as special treats rather than everyday conveniences. This shift is driving some key trends that operators will need to embrace to stay ahead.
Restaurants are stepping up with enticing deals to attract budget-conscious diners, along with loyalty programs that offer real value beyond just collecting points. To thrive in the value-focused foodservice landscape, successful operators will be looking at tiered pricing strategies, bundle deals that maximise perceived value, and investing in loyalty tech that offers personalised rewards.
2025-2026 | Connectivity
Looking ahead to 2025 and 2026, we can expect unprecedented connectivity in the industry. Consumers will be on the lookout for options that blend different culinary traditions, leading to exciting fusion cuisine experiences. Plus, the line between restaurant delivery and grocery shopping will start to blur, allowing customers to add groceries to their takeaway orders.
Technology will play a big role in this evolution; AI will make ordering smoother and more intuitive than ever. Platforms that harness tech to create seamless ordering experiences will likely lead the way.
2027-2028 | Tech
As we approach 2027 and 2028, technology will drive some major changes in food delivery. Social media platforms are set to become one-stop shops for discovering and ordering food, while drone deliveries could shift from being a novelty to a necessity in certain areas. We might even see smart food lockers popping up everywhere for those who want quick and easy collection options.
A Recipe for Market Growth
The numbers tell an impressive story: the market is projected to reach £40.5 billion by 2028, which means an exciting 28% growth over the next few years. This growth opens up significant opportunities for everyone involved. Operators who can adapt to changing consumer preferences and tech advancements will find plenty of chances to thrive. Consumers can look forward to more choices, greater convenience, and increasingly personalised experiences. And for tech providers? There will be a growing demand for innovative solutions that help operators meet evolving expectations.
Key Takeaways
Long story short, the delivery and takeaway market remains strong with lots of potential for growth. Success will hinge on finding the right balance between value, convenience, and technological innovation as operators stay flexible and ready to adapt to changing tastes.
If you’re eager for more insights into the future of foodservice delivery and takeaway, the complete Krumb report is packed with valuable data and strategies to help your business thrive in this ever-evolving landscape.
