One in three Brits will picnic ‘no matter the weather’, resorting to eating in the car or under an umbrella
One in three Brits will venture out for a picnic ‘no matter the weather’, sometimes ending up eating in their car or sheltering beneath a brolly. According to a survey of 2,000 adults, 20 per cent reckon unpredictable weather contributes to the ‘excitement’ of al fresco dining.
The research found the average person will enjoy three picnics a year, however many expect to be disrupted by the weather. A third press ahead with plans even if there’s a downpour, viewing it as part of being British. Meanwhile, almost half are keen to find an alternative place to eat if the weather turns bad in an effort not to waste food.
The best foods to survive a picnic downpour were revealed to be fruit, crisps – and chocolate bars.
A spokesperson for NestleĢ UK and Ireland, which commissioned the research, said: “There’s something quintessentially British about a picnic – whether it’s blazing sunshine or a stubborn grey sky.
“We’ll still lay out the blanket, unpack the homemade sandwich, break off some chocolate and make the best of it, as the study shows, and that sense of British comfort hits a little harder when so many of our go-to picnic treats come from brands that are part of Britain’s heritage too.”
The study revealed that over half of Brits are more likely to purchase food and drink if they know it’s made in Britain, while a third often check the packaging to confirm its origin before buying. The top reasons for buying British items include product quality, supporting the economy and backing local jobs.
In a separate finding, nearly a third say picnics are among their favourite British summertime childhood memories. With 28 per cent of those surveyed, via OnePoll, just determined to have a picnic of some sort.
A spokesperson for NestleĢ commented: “It just proves that for many of us, summer picnics are about feeling connected – to our favourite memories, our national quirks and everything the British summer season has to offer. What makes those moments even more special is the familiar food and drink that brings it all together.”
“There’s a real sense of pride in choosing British-made products that have been part of our summer traditions for generations. Many of the treats we reach for in those moments are made right here in Britain ā something the research shows us people are especially proud of.
“It’s not just about taste, it’s about supporting jobs, communities and the heritage behind our favourite brands.”
