The convenience trend is boosting the popularity of takeaway food. According to the results of a consumer trend survey conducted by Euromonitor International, 70 per cent of people aged 25–55 are looking for ways to simplify their lives. Home delivery of food is a globally growing trend. At the same time, customers demand sustainability in packaging and food production. People want to take good care of both themselves and the planet. That is called guilt-free or conscious consumption. International concern about plastic waste is also increasing, and people want to have products they can recycle or reuse. Paperboard is an excellent solution.
From mid-2021, the EU will restrict the use of throwaway plastic packaging. The main focus of the EU Single-Use Plastics Directive is on reuse. This poses challenges for food hygiene and consumer safety. Consumers also need clear instructions on how to recycle. That is a challenge to brand owners and packaging manufacturers as there is no universal recycling infrastructure across countries and practices wary even from municipality to another.
Here are the biggest take away trends 2020:
- Local, handmade food. Locally grown food creates important economic opportunities in your area and home country. It often provides health benefits and helps to reduce environmental impact.
- Inconsistent mealtimes and snacking. McDonald's has an all-day breakfast, and Starbucks included an evening menu in catering for late customers.
- Customisation of takeaway packaging as a means to express one's identity. Customers want to build their meals or get personal messages. That can be something as simple as a cup with the customer's name written on it.
- Increasing automation. At fast-food restaurants, orders can be placed, and payments made using kiosks. Coffee can be ordered for pick-up in advance using a mobile app. This all makes life more simple.
- Blurred lines between grocery shops and restaurants. A supermarket may also have a wine bar or a restaurant where you can spend time and also relax and enjoy it.
- A growing number of people are flexitarians: They commit to eating less meat and more plant-based food. Flexitarians are largely motivated by the desire to eat a healthier diet, concerns about the environment, and ethical issues such as animal welfare.
Metsä Board's Market Intelligence Manager Anu Rehtijärvi was interviewed for the article.
