United Kingdom (UK) Spreads Market Overview, 2028

United Kingdom (UK) Spreads Market Overview, 2028

The British have a deep appreciation for food and its role in social gatherings and traditions. Spread consumption is often associated with various cultural occasions, such as afternoon tea, where spreads like jam, butter, and clotted cream are enjoyed with scones. The British also embrace multiculturalism and have incorporated a wide range of international spreads into their culinary repertoire. With a diverse population, flavours from around the world have found their way into British households, leading to a fusion of traditional and global spread choices. This includes influences from countries like India, Italy, and the Middle East, which have introduced spreads like chutneys, pesto, and hummus to the British palate. The UK is renowned for its love of marmalade, especially in the city of Dundee, Scotland. Dundee is often referred to as the Marmalade Capital of the World due to its historical association with the production of this citrusy spread. Food spreads play a significant role in the tradition of afternoon tea in the UK. Alongside scones, clotted cream, and jam, various spreads like lemon curd, honey, and fruit preserves are served with tea and pastries. The Ploughman's Lunch is a traditional British pub meal that typically includes a selection of spreads like butter, chutney, and pickle, served alongside bread, cheese, cold meats, and salad. Spreads like buttercream frosting and chocolate ganache are commonly used to decorate celebration cakes in the UK. They add luscious texture and sweet flavour to birthday cakes, wedding cakes, and other special occasion treats.

According to the research report “United Kingdom Spread Market Overview, 2028, published by Bonafide Research, The United Kingdom Spread Market is projected to reach market size of more than USD 3.83 Billion by 2028. The Speciality & Fine Food Fair is a leading trade show held annually in London, featuring a wide range of artisanal and gourmet food products, including spreads. It provides an opportunity for producers, retailers, and buyers to discover new products and trends in the food industry. The International Food and Drink Event is one of the largest food and drink trade shows in the UK, attracting exhibitors and visitors from around the world. It showcases a diverse range of food products, including spreads, and serves as a platform for networking, product launches, and business development. In the UK, the preference for different types of spreads may vary among individuals. Savoury spreads, such as cheese spreads, vegetable spreads, and pâtés, are also enjoyed by some in the UK. They are often used in sandwiches, as a dip, or as a topping for crackers. Honey is a natural and versatile spread enjoyed by many in the UK. It is appreciated for its distinct flavour, sweetness, and perceived health benefits. Honey is commonly used on toast, pancakes, yoghurt, and in baking. Cadbury, Nutella, Robertson's, Biscoff, Bonne Maman, Meridian, Hartley's, and Wilkin & Sons Tiptree are among the major brands in the UK spread market. They offer a variety of options, including chocolate spreads, fruit preserves, nut butters, and savoury spreads. These brands are known for their quality and diverse flavour profiles, catering to the preferences of UK consumers.

In the UK, the food spread market is regulated by various government agencies to ensure consumer safety and product quality. The Food Standards Agency (FSA) is responsible for setting and enforcing food safety and labelling standards. The European Union regulations, such as the Food Information to Consumers Regulation (EU FIC), also apply in the UK. These regulations govern aspects like ingredient labelling, nutritional information, allergen declarations, and hygiene standards. Additionally, specific regulations may apply to certain types of spreads, such as dairy-based spreads or spreads containing nuts. Compliance with these regulations is crucial for manufacturers and importers of food spreads in the UK. Compliance with food safety regulations and labelling requirements is essential in the UK market. Brands must stay up-to-date with changing regulations and ensure their products meet the necessary standards. The food spread market in the UK is highly competitive, with numerous brands vying for market share. Established brands, private labels, and new entrants all compete for consumer attention, making it challenging for companies to differentiate themselves and gain a competitive edge. Consumers in the UK are price-conscious, and affordability plays a significant role in their purchasing decisions. This puts pressure on brands to offer competitive pricing while maintaining product quality and profit margins.

Supermarkets and hypermarkets, such as Tesco, Sainsbury's, Asda, and Morrisons, are the primary sales channels for food spreads in the UK. These large retail chains offer a wide range of products, catering to different consumer preferences and budgets. Convenience stores, including independent corner shops and convenience store chains like Co-op and Spar, play a significant role in the sales of food spreads. These stores offer convenience and easy access to spreads for consumers who prefer local or smaller shopping options. The online retail channel has seen significant growth in recent years, with platforms like Amazon, Ocado, and direct-to-consumer websites offering a wide selection of spreads. Online shopping provides convenience, a broader product range, and the ability to compare prices and read reviews. Consumer preferences in the UK are shifting towards healthier and more diverse food options. There is a growing demand for food spreads that are made from natural ingredients, free from artificial additives, and low in sugar or salt. Brands that can meet these changing preferences have a competitive advantage. The focus on health and wellness is a significant driver in the UK market. Consumers are looking for food spreads that offer nutritional benefits and align with their dietary preferences, such as spreads made from organic ingredients, those with reduced sugar content, or spreads suitable for specific dietary needs like gluten-free, vegan, etc. Consumers in the UK are increasingly seeking unique and interesting flavours in their food spreads. Brands that can offer a wide variety of flavours and introduce innovative combinations attract consumer interest and stand out in the market.

Considered in this report
• Geography: United Kingdom
• Historic year: 2017
• Base year: 2022
• Estimated year: 2023
• Forecast year: 2028

Aspects covered in this report:
• United Kingdom Spread Market with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Product Type:
• Spreadable Fats
• Fruit Jam & Preserve Spreads
• Nut Based Spreads
• Chocolate Spreads
• Savory Spreads
• Honey Based Spreads

By End-Use:
• Household
• Commercial

By Nature:
• Conventional
• Organic / Plant Based

By Distribution Channel:
• Hypermarket & Supermarket
• Convenience Store
• Online
• Others (Foodserive & Direct Sales)

The approach of the report
This report consists of a combined approach of primary as well as secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and listing out the companies that are present in the market. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual report of companies, analyzing the government generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources primary research was conducted by making telephonic interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducted trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this we have started doing primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting consumers in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us. we have started verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience:
This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations & organizations related to spread industry, government bodies and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing & presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.