Sally Lyons Wyatt, global EVP and chief advisor, consumer goods and foodservice insights, Circana, said, “Time is of the essence for Americans, especially when it comes to their morning routines. Sixty-five percent of morning eating occasions are prepared in less than five minutes, and we see opportunities for new appliances that give consumers quick solutions, with the microwave gaining the most ground since 2020.”
In the evening, lower-prep, quick-cleanup, and fewer ingredients are growing trends, Oliver Wyman Partner Randall Sargent said, “Dinner represents the largest financial upside for retailers winning at home relative to other eating occasions throughout the day. To increase their share of evening consumption, retailers and suppliers must offer solutions that are not only sufficiently convenient but also offer the varieties of cuisines and textures found in a foodservice offering.”
FMI Vice President, Research & Insights, Steve Markenson emphasized how retailers can share a compelling story for how these solutions meet the value-for-money and health preferences for busy consumers to prepare their midday food and beverages. He said, “The insights demonstrate how our industry can be successful by capitalizing on consumers’ shifting habits, especially when companies consider dayparts, such as snacks, to inspire experimentation and create new memories through food.”
Finally, as another way to consider how the food industry can cater to newfound eating experiences among consumers, the analysis points to opportunities to explore new channels by competing for untapped potential in places primarily occupied by food distributors.
Source: FMI - The Food Industry Association