Expanded prepared foods selections –including deli, hot bars, salad bars, coffee bars, and more –are both driving and satisfying consumer desire for the new convenience. Many stores now offer in-store dining areas, akin to restaurants –hence the term “grocerant.” Whether an easy add-on to a grocery trip or a quick stop in the middle of the workday, prepared foods offer a quick meal/snack at a location that is already convenient and familiar for many shoppers. Prepared foods from grocery retailers are often perceived as both less expensive and more healthful than eating at a restaurant, and definitely fresher and better tasting than a frozen ready meal. Food is easily customizable according to individual diets and tastes.

Report: Food Shopping in America 2017

Summit: Food Culture Forecast 2018