Some 80% of customers ordering delivery food as frequently as 2020

A new report published by Deliveroo into the UK public’s food delivery preferences has revealed more than eight out of 10 UK customers ordered deliveries at the same rate or more frequently in December 2021 than they did the year before.

The “Share of Stomach” report aims to “help restaurants understand consumer ordering habits and how they have been impacted by the pandemic”.

It revealed that more than half of customers (56%) are “more worried” about their personal finances than before the pandemic, and 56% say they are holding back on major purchases.

Deliveroo also claimed that people have become more health-conscious during the pandemic, with 62% of all adults saying they are more concerned now about their physical and mental health than they were a year ago. Some 60% stated that they want to be able to control their nutrition in what they eat.

Deliveroo said it has seen a 117% increase in demand for vegan food over the last 12 months, as “sustainability and environmental impact have become a key driver of customers’ food choices”.

Carlo Mocci, chief business officer UKI Deliveroo, said: “The pandemic has certainly been tough on the restaurant industry, and even with restrictions now lifted, it’s clear that the appetite for food delivery is here to stay.

“Understanding exactly what customers want, and how their tastes and ordering habits have changed over the past couple of years, is going to be vital as restaurants seek to bounce back. Food delivery will continue to boost their revenues and Deliveroo is proud to be helping restaurants reach new customers and grow their businesses.”

Andreia Harwood, marketing director at Wingstop, added: “During the pandemic, and like many brands, our main challenges were around recruitment and supply chain consistency. But we also had some great moments, thanks to working with Deliveroo.

“Not only did we win Deliveroo’s ‘Restaurant of the Year’ award, but we really benefited from their products, expertise and technology. Utilising Deliveroo’s ‘Editions’ delivery-only kitchens, and using their marketing tools to understand exactly how each of our sites was doing, really enabled us to find that sweet spot between delivery and dine in.”