Packaged meal kits are organized by brands in response to the COVID-19 crisis
Trend - Pre-packaged meal kits are offering consumers convenient alternatives to grocery shopping, as enforced physical distancing amidst the COVID-19 pandemic has forced them to rely more on homemade foods than they're accustomed to.
Insight - With many people not currently working, or not having to spend long hours in their day commuting, some consumers have more free time than they're accustomed to. On the other hand, consumers who are having to work from home while raising children and taking care of family members may find themselves busier than ever. Convenient and curated meal options for both sets of consumers are crucial--as for the former they help organize one's day, and for the latter they provide much-needed ease and convenience.
Insight - With many people not currently working, or not having to spend long hours in their day commuting, some consumers have more free time than they're accustomed to. On the other hand, consumers who are having to work from home while raising children and taking care of family members may find themselves busier than ever. Convenient and curated meal options for both sets of consumers are crucial--as for the former they help organize one's day, and for the latter they provide much-needed ease and convenience.
Workshop Question - How is your brand easing its customers' routines as they adjust to enforced physical distancing?
Trend Themes
1. Pre-packaged Meal Kits - As consumers are relying more heavily on homecooked meals during COVID-19, pre-packaged meal kits offer convenient and curated meal options.
2. Restaurant Grocery Services - With grocery stores selling out of many popular products, restaurant chains such as Panera are taking advantage of their supply network to offer essential pantry items through their own grocery services.
3. Locally-sourced Subscription Boxes - Delivery box services such as Pop Up Grocer Box are helping small businesses during the pandemic by providing a way for consumers to access their products while social distancing.
Industry Implications
1. Meal Kit Delivery - The rise of pre-packaged meal kits presents an opportunity for meal kit delivery companies to offer curated meal options that provide ease and convenience to consumers.
2. Grocery Stores - With restaurant chains and delivery services offering grocery services, grocery stores should consider innovative ways to adapt to the current situation such as contactless delivery or implementing a subscription box service.
3. Local Small Businesses - Subscription box services present an opportunity for small businesses to reach consumers outside of their geographical location and connect with new audiences.
