"To keep growing, foodservice deliveries and takeaways must offer dependable value through loyalty programs, and easier, healthier ordering options."
Bridget McCusker, Research Analyst
Takeaway prices, based on RPI data from the ONS, have more than doubled since 2000, with the sharpest increase occurring after 2022. This inflationary backdrop continues to be the primary driver of market growth. With many households reporting rising household costs, takeaways are increasingly being compared to cheaper at-home alternatives, particularly as supermarket meal bundles reset value expectations.
This challenge is intensified by competition from supermarkets, with 61% of consumers believing their meal deals offer better value. This shift has positioned supermarkets as a key influence on price perception, forcing delivery operators to justify their costs through quality and convenience. In this climate, the biggest opportunity lies in loyalty programmes and partnerships that offer perceived savings.
Looking ahead, technology will continue to reshape the delivery landscape through innovations like AI assistants, smarter vending, and drone delivery. Despite these advancements, headwinds remain, including persistent cost pressures and HFSS advertising restrictions. Success will depend on an operator’s ability to balance consumer demand for indulgent treats with subtle health-conscious nudges, all while delivering dependable value in an increasingly competitive market.
This Report focuses on delivery and takeaway of food and drink prepared by foodservice establishments (where drink is being ordered with a meal). Such a service typically involves the placing of an order by telephone, via the internet (including apps) or in-person.
Mintel has included market size and forecast data to provide a more complete picture of the overall health of the UK foodservice delivery and takeaway market for this Report. The market size value was conducted using a combination of methodology and resources, including the analysis of ONS consumer spending data and business activity data in addition to trade interviews, analysis of business results, key developments in the foodservice delivery and takeaway market in the UK, and Mintel consumer research findings.
Excluded from the scope of this Report are meal services for the elderly and infirm such as the Community Meals Service.
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