Increase of 33% in the UK online grocery market

This year alone the online grocery market in the United Kingdom is expected to increase with 33% according to Mintel. The online grocery market in the United Kingdom is estimated to reach a value of €19.2 billion.

Last year, the online grocery market was €14.5 billion. The growth of 33% would mean a significant development for the online grocery market. The online grocery market in the United Kingdom is estimated to be worth €20.5 billion in 2024. This would ultimately be a growth of 41% over a five year period.

Dramatic change in online shopping habits

Mintel revealed a dramatic change in online shopping habits. These shopping habits appeared over the COVID-19 lockdown period. During the early days of the spread of COVID-19, online shopping experienced a growth of 7% in the United Kingdom. Around two months later, online shopping has seen a dramatic boost. Consumers said they have increased their online shopping rising to 36%. In addition, 50% of consumers, in the United Kingdom, have tried to limit time they spend in-store. Furthermore, 9% of British consumers have used click-and-collect more.

The impact will last beyond the crisis

Nick Carroll, Associate Director of Retail Research at Mintel, said the following: "The pandemic is giving a significant short-term boost to online grocery services, as shoppers look to avoid stores and limit their contact with the outside world. However, the impact will last beyond the crisis". Nick Carroll explained that the current outbreak is bringing a new audience to the online grocery market. This should eventually boost the market long term with a strong growth forecast through to 2024.

Difficulty ordering online

The current guidelines in the United Kingdom ask those aged 70 and over to remain at home during the outbreak. This means that the older shoppers are more heavily reliant on having groceries delivered. However, the majority of older shoppers experience difficulties when shopping online. Many are relying on the kindness of friends and family. A quarter of consumers, aged under 44, say they have been helping their friend and family with their shopping.