This is Mintel's third standalone report on the UK sandwich market. The last report on this sector was published in December 1997. Since that date demand for sandwiches has remained strong, boosted not only by their ready availability and convenience, but also the initiatives taken by producers and retailers to keep sandwiches an interesting and infinitely versatile, healthy lunchtime option.

Fashion helps to drive the market and stimulate customer interest in what is an essentially classic concept. However, Mintel notes that as the market matures and despite increasing consumer sophistication, the major portion of this market remains dominated by standards such as chicken salad, egg and cress, and prawn mayonnaise.

Definitions

Mintel's report on sandwiches embraces those sole outside the home ranging in variety from specialist bars, through petrol forecourt shops, the grocery multiple and on board trains. Both pre-packed and made to order sandwiches are included. Although the market is dominated by triangular packs of sandwiches Mintel's definition include a wide variety of bread types and shapes such as rolls, baguettes, wraps and pittas.