Europe’s frozen food market powers growth amid rising ethnic cuisine and online delivery trends

Europe’s frozen food market powers growth amid rising ethnic cuisine and online delivery trends

Industry News
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The continent’s foodservice market grows steadily, driven by frozen foods, increasing demand for ethnic cuisines, and a surge in online delivery, with QSRs and contract caterers dominating as consumer habits shift towards convenience and diverse dining experiences.

The global foodservice industry is experiencing robust growth, with its market value currently estimated between USD 5 trillion and USD 6 trillion. This expansion is notably propelled by the increasing prevalence of quick-service restaurants (QSRs), the rising demand for ethnic cuisines in Western markets, the burgeoning street food trend, and the advancement of online food delivery platforms. As consumers increasingly seek out convenient and affordable dining options, many foodservice operators are turning to frozen foods to meet this demand.

Europe, while accounting for approximately 20% to 25% of the global foodservice market, continues to lag behind regions such as Asia-Pacific and North America. The European sector is significantly influenced by dominant QSR operators like McDonald’s, which has over 7,400 outlets in the region, and contract catering firms such as Sodexo and Compass Group. Other key players include Yum! Brands, with its KFC and Pizza Hut chains, along with Starbucks and Domino’s Pizza. This competitive landscape illustrates the strong reliance on frozen food products, which offer both cost efficiency and consistent quality.

Ethnic cuisines are particularly popular within Europe's largest food markets, such as the UK, France, and Germany. A recent survey by Just Eat highlighted that Italian food remains the UK's top choice for takeaway, with dishes like lasagne ranking high in consumer preferences across regions. Indian cuisine, too, has carved a niche, especially in Wales and Scotland, where chicken tikka masala reigns supreme. The trend for early out-of-home dining is also gaining traction, mirroring behaviours observed in the US. According to the Delifrance Breakfast Report 2022, 24% of UK consumers indicated they have breakfast outside the home at least once during the week, with younger demographics particularly inclined towards this habit.

Brunch is evolving into an important meal occasion, especially on weekends, reflecting a shift towards less formal eating patterns. A 2024 survey by Appinio for Aviko UK found that nearly half of British adults (47%) partake in brunch weekly, with peak consumption occurring between 10am and noon. This trend fits well within the broader context of convenience expected by modern consumers, particularly the younger generation.

Moreover, Europe is seeing a significant uptick in online food delivery, accounting for nearly 20% of global sales. The market is anticipated to grow substantially, with projections estimating an increase from nearly USD 74 billion in 2024 to more than USD 111.6 billion by 2030, averaging an annual growth of almost 8%. The increased adoption of smartphones and high-speed internet is making ordering food more accessible, while partnerships among food delivery services and key grocery retailers enhance the overall dining experience.

Frozen foods play an essential role in this ecosystem, constituting roughly a fifth of the total expenditure on food service. The types of frozen products frequently utilised by foodservice operators include meat, seafood, and various potato-based items, which are crucial for menu offerings in a competitive dining landscape.

As these trends unfold, frozen food manufacturers stand poised to capitalise on the changing eating habits and rising consumer expectations within the foodservice sector. Companies that can adapt their offerings to cater to the growing demand for convenience and variety are likely to find significant opportunities for growth in this evolving market.

Do you produce, or sell, an excellent frozen food product here in the UK? We would love to hear from you: https://uk.qualityfoodawards.com/QFA2025/en/page/2025-enter-awards