Managing director Keith Hinchcliffe said: “As we began 2018, (Beacon) identified the key issues and trends that it believed the hospitality industry needed to be aware of.
“As 2018 drew to a close, we started to see that some of these predictions had proved incredibly popular.
“We predicted that consumers would look to lead healthier lifestyles following the introduction of the sugar tax and changing consumer appetites. We found this to be true, with an increase in people choosing a teetotal lifestyle and incorporating healthy dining choices such as plant-based meals.
“The ‘Made In Britain’ trend we identified remained popular, with our research revealing that over half of UK consumers are willing to pay up to 10% more for their food if they know it is made in Britain.
“As well as actively seeking produce from our shores, consumers increasingly experimented with vegan, vegetarian and free-from lifestyles, all of which saw growth through 2018, predominantly driven by millennials.
“However, from our predictions, Brexit still remains the biggest uncertainty and could have the largest impact on the hospitality sector, alongside many other industries, throughout 2019.”
Three food and drink trends Beacon believes will play a ‘significant’ role in shaping the hospitality industry over the next year, are:
Plastic and environmentally conscious practice
Consumers have created a tidal wave against plastic pollution, particularly single-use items such as straws. There has been a sharp increase in demand for alternatives, and much of the hospitality industry has adapted accordingly after being highlighted as one of the most influential in the war against plastic.
With the tide turning on the acceptance of single-use plastic items, Beacon predicts that 2019 will see even more operators and outlets adopt environmentally friendly practices.
With increased demand, costs may also start to come down as competition to supply potentially grows, making it easier for smaller business to adapt without damaging cost implications.
We could also see the hospitality industry broaden its plastic alternative supplies from catering to other areas of business, including consumables and even interiors.
Healthy Living
Beacon predicted an increase in healthier lifestyles in 2018 but the plant-based and teetotal movements surpassed all expectations, with a record-breaking ‘Veganuary’ kicking off the year and more consumers incorporating elements of this healthier lifestyle.
Consumers have a broader awareness of the effect diet has on their bodies and well-being and are adapting accordingly. Operators have capitalised on this by introducing a broader range of premium alcohol-free, low sugar beverages, which Beacon believes will grow further this year.
Beacon reckons this trend will continue throughout 2019, with the public becoming more health-conscious and making changes to their behaviour, and also increasingly environmentally responsible where food waste is concerned.
Brexit
The final Brexit deal, or no deal, is likely to be a significant influence on the year ahead and is setting 2019 up to be a year of undeniable change.
The uncertainty could be a key factor in why we are seeing a significant rise in demand for in season, local produce. Operators will be keen to explore home-grown options as they prepare for potential import issues, port delays and price pressures, should the UK leave the EU in March.
Beacon believes the focus on provenance will build on the ‘Made in Britain’ trend, as consumers and operators look for reliable alternatives and support the country’s infrastructure by shopping local.
Hinchcliffe concluded: “(Beacon is) looking forward to seeing what 2019 will bring and which trends will come out on top.”