Tesco shares predictions for “unprecedented Christmas”

In its third annual Christmas report, the retailer shares insight on what it expects from shoppers in the festive season.

Family connections

One in five people report having grown closer to their family over lockdown, putting family and traditions at centre stage for Christmas celebrations this year. Nostalgia is expected to be highest amongst younger shoppers, with 40% saying a traditional family Christmas is more important than ever.

However, a none-traditional element will be an increase in video calling, with 14% expecting to have a virtual Christmas dinner, and 18% planning virtual Christmas drinks parties.

Home cooking

Tesco expects the scratch cooking trend of 2020 to extend into Christmas, with 85% of people planning to cook at least part of their dinner from scratch.

Innovations and special touches

One in five is reportedly looking for food and drink innovations in the festive season, with Tesco’s seasonal NPD seeking to catch these shoppers’ eyes.

Over a third are also planning extra touches to make things special this year, a promising opportunity for trade-up.

Increased focus on sustainability

Tesco reports that three quarters of shoppers will be making purchasing decisions with sustainability in mind this Christmas, an increase of 36% YoY. Efforts include choosing loose fruit and vegetables, and reusing wrapping paper. Reducing plastic use remains high on the agenda, and in this spirit, 95% of F+F Christmas jumpers will be utilising plastic from recycled bottles.

IGD