British picnic-goers are elevating their outdoor dining experiences with gourmet additions such as charcuterie boards, homemade sausage rolls and cheese scones.
A study surveying 2,000 adults revealed that 11% aim to impress friends with a lavish picnic, spending an average of £25.80 on their open-air meals and beverages. Yet, an even larger 13% go all out, splashing more than £40 on food for these occasions.
Despite 65% citing the weather as a crucial factor for the perfect picnic, another 36% said the quality of food significantly impacts their experience.
The survey found that 29% of participants agreed traditional picnic dishes are being replaced by contemporary alternatives. One in five will serve a selection of cured meats when dining outdoors, with olives (25%), pate (15%) and sushi (10%) among the more popular food items now featured.
The research, carried out via OnePoll, also showed a growing trend towards homemade picnic foods, with 22% making their own sausage rolls, 17% preparing coleslaw, and 29% providing home-baked cakes.
Even if they’re not making them themselves, Brits are keeping it local looking with one in five (19%) making a visit to the deli to gather supplies and 15% shopping at their local farm store.
The study was commissioned by Aspall Cyder, which has teamed up with etiquette coach, Jo Bryant, to offer advice on how to ‘picnic properly’, coinciding with the launch of its new Crisp Apple Cyder slimline can this summer.
Jo Bryant commented: “Whether you’re heading to a picturesque location, beachside or simply stepping out to your backyard, we Brits have a fondness for a good picnic.
“However, this fresh research indicates that Brits are ‘upscaling’ their picnics this summer, replacing some of the conventional food and beverages with more gourmet alternatives, thereby enhancing the overall picnic experience for their guests.”
As Jo highlights, drinks are also becoming a key factor in the picnic selection, with Brits increasingly opting for more artisian choices.
One in ten stated that a well-chilled drink selection is crucial, with a plastic wine glass (11%) or a tin (10%) being the preferred drinking vessels and the most popular beverages listed as cider (15%), prosecco (15%), and iced coffee (10%).
Samantha Maynard, from Aspall Cyder, added: “Picnics will persist as a part of British culture, and regardless of the weather, it seems like people always manage to fit one in during the summer.
“Our research shows people are enhancing their picnics so we wanted to assist them in optimising their outdoor dining by collaborating with Jo Bryant to develop an etiquette guide for perfect picnics.
“Alongside ensuring picnic-perfect food and drinks, putting a bit more effort into all the finishing touches can help make the overall experience feel more memorable.”
