'More than third Brits to opt for pre-prepared food this Christmas'

A good majority (22 per cent) of hosts expect guests to bring along ready-made dishes, while three in five millennials are buying food that sparks childhood memories, a recent report has stated highlighting expected Christmas trends for 2024.

According to Sainsbury’s Seasonal Spotlight report, grilling is also set to be popular, with 17 per cent planning to host a barbeque party during the festive period, with Sainsbury’s reporting a whopping +74 per cent increase in December burger sales over the past two years.

Millennials will also be taking on more festive duties in 2024, as over a third (39 per cent) will host Christmas for the first time this year.

"Only one in five (21 per cent) hosts will be whipping everything up from scratch this year whereas more than a third (34 per cent) would rather spend more money on pre-prepared food to spend more time with family and friends. A further 30 per cent are opting for premixed cocktails to avoid elaborate drinks recipes that need multiple ingredients," stated the report.

"The year of the retro dessert cocktail is here, with over two fifths of Brits (44 per cent) finding the idea of nostalgic Christmas themed drinks appealing, adds the report.

Claire Hughes, Director of Product and Innovation at Sainsbury’s, commented, “It’s the most wonderful time of the year! We know our customers are seeking solutions that take the fuss out of preparation and hosting for the festive season, so we’re all about “Christmas-made-easy”; think ready-to-drink cocktails, air fryer-friendly party food and convenient, quick-cook centrepieces – all just as big on wow factor as they are on flavour.

“Panettone is synonymous with Christmas and this year we’ve taken it to the next level with both a chocolate and hazelnut as well as a limoncello variant that are perfect for gifting. We’ve even got a mini panettone in a tin that’s just the right size for a stocking. From tipples like our dessert-inspired liqueurs to an eye-catching light up terrarium, there’s truly something for everyone.

“Christmas is also a time for nostalgia and this year, 60 per cent of the nation plan on rediscovering the joy of retro dishes that hark back to the trends and traditions they grew up with. You can expect dishes like terrine, miniature party food and prawn cocktail to make an appearance at the table this year.”