Seven in 10 UK tradies take a packed lunch to work, according to new research from InstallerSHOW.
The findings, based on a survey of 332 UK tradespeople under 50, found packups are overwhelmingly the preferred lunchtime option, far ahead of supermarket meal deals, cafés or fast food.
The study suggests installers are prioritising value and predictability as ongoing cost pressures continue to affect both businesses and households, with packed lunches also having a time-saving benefit as tradespeople can eat in their vans whenever they get a break.
Only 12% of those questioned opted for a supermarket meal deal as their preferred lunch and sandwiches and wraps remain the clear main of choice, chosen by 61% of respondents. Crisps were the dominant snack choice, selected by more than half of installers, while fizzy drinks and energy drinks proved the most popular beverage options.
The stereotypical tradies’ favourite – the greasy spoon café – bagged just 4% of the vote, suggesting that tastes have changed over the years for the health and cost conscious tradesperson. The same number said they skip lunch all together.
Biscuits of choice
The findings also paint a picture of a highly habitual workforce. Hobnobs and chocolate biscuits topped the list of preferred biscuits offered by customers, while tea and coffee remain popular, with a sugary, milky brew the favourite choice.
InstallerSHOW’s Lucy Dixon said: “With the way food prices have soared in recent years, it wasn’t surprising to see so many tradespeople prefer taking their own food when out and about. It also reflects our audience’s growing interest in getting a healthy lunch with plenty of protein and veg – although they’re not going to turn down the occasional Hobnob, of course.”
Key findings of the research:
- 70% of installers go for a packed lunch, with 4% preferring a greasy spoon, 12% a meal deal, 4% not having anything and 3% choosing fast food.
- For those opting for a meal deal, 60% choose a sandwich as a main, 13% go for a salad or pasta pot and 12% choose a hot option. Fizzy drinks were chosen by 30%, with energy drinks in second place with 25%.
- When offered a brew, 24% choose tea with milk and sugar, with 19% going for coffee with milk and sugar and 10% declining a drink.
- If biscuits are offered, 29% of installers hope it’ll be Hobnobs, followed by 25% wanting a chocolate digestive and 14% not wanting any biscuits.
Contributors
Lucy Dixon (author)
Lucy leads on InstallerBUILD content, as well as engagement for InstallerSHOW. She has a background in journalism and a wealth of experience in events, publishing and social media.
