The new study suggests young adults aren’t fussed by silver service and want a relaxed spread, while older generations still prefer traditional dining.
More than half (52 per cent) of Gen Z now choose picnics with friends over a fancy sit-down meal, the survey found. In contrast, 60 per cent of over 55s still prefer a formal dinner and like to be waited on.
Sainsbury’s, which carried out the survey, said its research shows ‘the tide is changing’ when it comes to how Britons choose to wine and dine. The supermarket’s study, of over 2,000 people, found that 50 per cent of Gen Z and Millennials say their favourite way to dine in the summer is having a picnic. Only 32 per cent of over 55s said the same.
More than half of Gen Z (56 per cent) and six out of 10 Millennials (59 per cent) prefer the simplicity of having a ‘picky tea’ over hosting a dinner party. The majority (54 per cent) of 16 to 24 year olds say they like picnics because there is ‘less pressure’ than hosting dinner. Just 36 per cent of Brits over 55 would choose a picnic over a three- course meal, the study found.
The data found that we as a nation love picnics because they are so relaxed. Topping the list of what the nation likes best about picnics is the casual set up and relaxed atmosphere (41 per cent), followed by them being a fun way to socialise (32 per cent), and their flexibility (28 per cent).
Which that young adults also want more than the traditional picnic items. Half (50 per cent) of Gen Z want to enhance their picnics with fancy salads, sushi, and pastries. Only 32 per cent of over 55s want those items.
Almost a quarter (24 per cent) of Gen Z say picnics make a perfect date and 21 per cent love that they can share the cost with friends.
This week Sainsbury’s is launching its own weatherproof ‘Picnic Pavilion’ in Covent Garden, London, for people who love al fresco dining. Open on Friday and Saturday, the pop-up dining zone let’s Brits enjoy a summer spread without fear of the weather ruining it. For £5, groups of up to six will receive a hamper with picnic food from Sainsbury’s new summer range.
Sainsbury’s research also found the unpredictable weather is already ruining our summer plans. Nearly a third (30 per cent) said they are put off al fresco dining this year because of the weather and 37 per cent are avoiding making plans that are reliant on the weather.
A spokesperson for Sainsbury’s commented: “Our research shows that generationally there is a split in how the nation likes to dine, with younger people now favouring a casual picnic-style spread with friends over a fancy sit-down meal. With the weather being so unpredictable in the UK recently, we wanted to give Brits the chance to enjoy a picnic rain or shine, which is why we’re launching the Picnic Pavilion, where people can come together to feast on hampers full of innovative products from our latest summer range – with nods to the classic British picnic and Mediterranean tapas!”
The Sainsbury’s Picnic Pavilion Details:
Opening Days: Friday 21st and Saturday 22nd June 2024
Opening Times: 12:00 – 8:15pm
Address: The Stables, Covent Garden, WC2H 9LH
Nearest Stations: 2-minute walk to Covent Garden (Piccadilly Line), 10-minute walk to Leicester Square (Northern Line, Piccadilly Line)
Cost: £5
Booking: Via Design My Night
