Retailer says figures that show exotic salads are becoming lunch option of choice are behind move to expand range
Tesco has trebled its on-the-go salad range to more than 50 lines following new data that shows the lighter salad market is growing around three times as fast as the lunchtime sandwich market.
Data produced by market analysts Nielsen, and published by Tesco, reveals that the sandwich market is growing by 5%, while figures from market insight firm IRI revealed demand for lighter, healthier salads has soared by 19% over the last 52 weeks, while leafy salads are up by 13%.
Tesco said exotic and lighter salads are becoming the lunch option of choice for office workers, as better quality produce is attracting new consumers who might previously have bought a sandwich or wrap. Its new range has expanded both the Finest and Healthy Living tiers, and includes four first-to-market salads.
New additions include a crayfish and mango salad, a coconut Asian chicken salad, and a king prawn and spicy Charlotte potato salad with sour cream.
Tesco salad buyer Helen Dwyer said: “The quality and range of ready to eat salads has improved so much in recent years that they are attracting shoppers who might otherwise have bought a sandwich, roll or wrap.
“Traditionally, sales of prepared salads would rise during the summer months and drop again during the winter. Now, because of the exciting number of new gourmet salads available that demand is not only sustained throughout the year but is bringing in plenty of new customers who might otherwise have chosen a sandwich as a lunchtime snack.
“This current boom has prompted us to launch what we believe to be among the most sumptuous and wide-ranging ‘on the go’ salad range available on the high street but at equally mouth-watering prices.
“We’ve included something for everyone – from our finest top of the range lines to lighter sushi rice salads and Healthy Living range for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.”