Since the pandemic, food-to-go concepts have skyrocketed, making them a convenience the public can’t do without. Reaching a market value of £23 billion in 2024, it’s clear that the trend is here to stay and is expanding into other avenues within the world of gastronomy.
From drive-throughs and station cafés to open markets and coffee shops, the opportunity to increase your sales by pandering to quick consumerism is almost limitless. So, whether you’re a start-up or an established concern, it’s time to jump onboard.
As packaging and display experts in the food and drinks industry, we have our fingers on the pulse when it comes to the latest countertop display concepts specially tailored to the takeaway market, so read on if you want to leapfrog the pack.
Emerging growth areas
Conquering this highly competitive arena involves understanding buyer preferences and catering to their needs. And to do this well, you need to look at the latest industry shifts.
Sustainability
This is a global demand and involves everything from how foods are sourced to your countertop solutions and the boxes they’re sold in. Recycled, biodegradable and compostable containers are taking preference over pollutants like polystyrene and plastic, while your risers, cake stands, trays and serving boards should be made from eco-friendly woods, wicker, glass or steel.
In keeping with this, mitigating food waste is essential, spurring catering companies and manufacturers to find innovative new ways to deal or dispense with leftovers. This includes donating to food banks and joining ‘too good to go’ campaigns.
Implement these practices, and you’ll be well on your way to fostering brand loyalty and trust.
Wellness
Health is in the spotlight as countries worldwide battle eating conditions and obesity, so be prepared for a transparent approach. This has led to a more mindful attitude and a call for properly balanced meals.
Food that includes added nutritional benefits like pre- or probiotics, augmented protein or daily vitamins are gaining popularity, leaving the more processed options behind.
In conjunction with this comes a rise in pre-prepared meals that pander to personalised diets – especially for those who exercise with intent. If this is part of your latest wheelhouse, we suggest you invest in our eco-friendly mango wood display frames. They’re visually impactful, have been designed specifically to house standardised chafing trays and are resistant to heat and cold.
On the drinks front, low alcohol beverages are on the rise, encouraging breweries, distilleries and vineyards to add them to their offerings. And, of course, coffee culture is now in a league of its own. From specialty blends and alternative milks to creating bespoke experiences, the growth options are endless... so be prepared to support high-volume sales with a good supply of double walled compostable cups.
Flavour and authenticity
From fresh ingredients to bona fide spices that hail from cuisine-specific regions, authentic food is in demand. Because why should healthy eating be boring?
If you’re a market trader promoting your share of new and interesting produce, presentation is key. Whether you need baskets and buckets or a standout collection of bowls, trays, crates and containers, we’ll help you up your game.
Takeaway trends that are here to stay
Consumer eating patterns also need to be taken into account. These include:
Diet-based foods
Flexitarian, pescatarian, gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan diets are on the up and, with an increased demand for all of them, it’s something worth offering your patrons.
Flexibility
Allowing your customers to experience your full offering despite the fact that they’re not eating in-store will curry favour and put you on the map, so make sure you stock both food and packaging choices that include starters, mains and desserts.
Snacking
Yes, eating throughout the day is a new way to fuel both the body and brain, especially for desk-bound employees who can’t break away. If you’re paying attention, you will have noticed that delis who previously only sold pastries and pies are now providing different snack options – and are lining their pockets more effectively by doing so.
How our shop counter display stands fit the equation
The above trends are shaping a new approach to takeaway consumerism, so if you’re expanding your offerings, consider the following.
Pre-portioning – find food-to-go boxes that control your portion sizes.
Eco-friendliness – incorporate this into all of your displays by investing in durable, responsibly sourced materials that also support health and safety.
Temperature control – supply packaging options that keep your offerings at optimal heat, for example thermal coffee cups for hot beverages and fabric bags with cooling inserts for shoppers who’ll be taking home fresh produce or sensitive pre-prepared meals. Personalise these, and you’ll also help expand your brand visibility.
Signage – keep your customers informed with clear ticketing. It will take care of the basics and stop your staff from having to answer repetitive questions.
Efficiency – use the right packaging designs to help streamline your processes.
What WBC has to offer your food displays
We’re all about convenience and are here to take care of all your food packaging and display needs. Plus, we provide the best options in town.
From our discerning countertop offerings to point-of-sale signage, branded bags and modular furniture, we pride ourselves on offering functionality that takes the cake.
But that's not all!
If you'd like to take your branding to the next level, you can also:
- Have your wooden boards and trays overprinted or engraved within 10 working days (Ts and Cs apply).
- Chat to us about bespoke concepts for all your retail display needs.
Browse now and get your farm shop, deli or catering business set up for the busiest season yet. You’ll find everything you need at the click of a button – or call our upbeat sales team for any advice.
