SPECIAL EDITION: Latest ONS data reveals a watershed moment for foodservice

In this edition of WBR, I take a look at the latest ONS Family Spending Survey; it’s a wake-up call for anyone in foodservice.Whilst industry commentary has painted a picture of unstoppable growth in dining out, the latest data tells a very different story:  

• Only 35% of total food and drink spend now happens away from home

• Restaurant & hotel spend has fallen from a peak of 9.5% of household expenditure in 2016-17 to just 8.3% in 2024.

• The gap between high and low-income households is widening sharply – with the top earners spending 6.7 times more on dining out than the lowest income decile.

The consequences are clear: the 2010’s boom in eating out has partially reversed, reshaping the market. Premium dining is holding steady, but casual operators are under strain. Takeaways on the other hand are capturing ground across income groups. This is more than a shift – it’s a watershed moment. Success for operators now depends on sharper demographic targeting and a rethink of broad-market strategies.

Read the full analysis