Mintel forecasts steady Christmas as British shoppers embrace Black Friday!

*Mintel forecasts December retail sales to be worth £48.7 billion 

*39% of consumers bought something during last year’s Black Friday promotions - Electrical items were the most popular purchases - bought by 49% of Black Friday shoppers

Love it or loathe it, Black Friday is now fully ingrained in the UK retail calendar.  While the official date of Black Friday isn't until November 29, many retailers are launching special deals starting from today, Friday, November 22, catching shoppers who want to do some early Christmas shopping.  

So whether you want to brave the high street full of bargain hunters and tourists or opt for shopping online in the peaceful home (or office) setting, there are serious deals and savings to be had, from electronic toys to games consoles, clothing, beauty and personal care.

Luxury Personalised Christmas Cracker - Family Treats by The Handmade Christmas Co. 

Black Friday is a tradition that originated in the US where retailers cut prices the day after Thanksgiving.  In recent years, UK retailers have hoped on the bandwagon and embraced it as a major annual shopping event in the run-up to Christmas.


According to retail and market experts at Mintel, last year almost two in five (39%) British consumers made a purchase during the Black Friday promotions.  Avoiding the retail rush, 86% of Black Friday shoppers bought online, while just under three in ten (29%) bought in-store. Amazon was the most popular destination, with 42% of Black Friday buyers shopping with the online giant during the event. 

ENGLISH LAVENDER COLLECTION By Yardley London

Overall, electrical items were the most popular purchases, bought by 49% of Black Friday shoppers, followed by clothing and footwear (38%) and beauty and fragrance (25%). 

Nick Carroll, Associate Director of Retail Research at Mintel, said:  “Black Friday is here to stay, and we expect it to be potentially the biggest it’s ever been in the UK. Unlike in recent years, Black Friday 2019 falls right at the end of the month - after payday and less than four weeks before Christmas. This makes perfect timing to capitalise on shoppers who are looking to save during this uncertain period.
Mintel forecasts December retail sales to be worth £48.7 billion 

Despite a particularly tough year, Mintel forecasts some Christmas cheer for Britain’s retailers. Latest research predicts that December’s retail sales will reach £48.7 billion, growing a respectable 3.8% compared to last December when sales hit £46.9 billion.  

 Personalised Christmas Bottle Bags can be ordered from Vanilla Reindeer.

Sales through non-food retailers this December are expected to reach £23.9 billion (including £4.2 billion from online sales generated by physical stores); while food retailers will enjoy sales of £18.8 billion (including £1.4 billion from online sales generated by physical stores). And in the battle between the clicks and bricks, Mintel estimates that internet pure players (online only retailers) will account for £6.0 billion worth of sales.

Mintel forecasts total online sales this December will be worth £11.6 billion, accounting for 23.7% of all retail sales.

Nick Carroll, Associate Director of Retail Research at Mintel, said: “The past few festive periods have shown that customers can be resilient in the face of uncertain times and we believe underlying demand will hold up reasonably well. Customers will, of course, be looking for value, and with fewer days between Black Friday and Christmas this year retailers’ margins may be particularly stretched.

“Although high-street retailers may be under pressure … those that can provide valued experiences whilst tapping into other underlying trends, such as local sourcing and ethical production, combined with attracting value-conscious shoppers, put themselves in a good position this festive season.”

Some Christmas retail cheer: Mintel forecasts growth of 4% for UK sales in December

With the Christmas countdown in full swing, retail researchers Mintel is forecasting some festive cheer for Britain’s retailers. Latest findings predicts that December’s retail sales will reach £47.7 billion (incl. VAT), growing a respectable 4% compared to last December, when sales hit £45.8 billion.  

Coal Drops Yard new shopping mall - a stunning new favourite retail destination in King's Cross, London, near Granary Square. 

Photos © Lucia Carpio

Sales through non-food retailers are expected to reach £23.5 billion (including £4 billion from online sales generated by physical stores); while food retailers will enjoy sales of £18.6 billion (including £1.4 billion from online sales generated by physical stores). And in the battle between the clicks and bricks, Mintel estimates that internet pure players (online only retailers), will account for £5.6 billion worth of sales.

Mintel December 2018 retail forecast: Non-food retailers (stores + online)  £23.5 bn Food retailers (stores + online)  £18.6 bn Online pure players  £5.6 bn  Total  £47.7 bn With online sales generated by physical non-food and food stores estimated to hit £5.4 billion, combined with the £5.6 billion generated by internet pure players, Mintel expects total online sales this December will be worth £11 billion.   Caravane, one of the upmarket retail shops in Coal Drops Yard, King's Cross, London Richard Perks, Director of Retail Research at Mintel, said: “We think that retailers can look forward to a reasonably good Christmas—not outstanding, but it won’t be bad either. While there are some reasons to be cautious, such as falling consumer confidence, there is no real sign of an underlying slowdown in retail sales growth. Retail sales have held up well this year and we expect the recent momentum is likely to be maintained, with retail sales growing at about 4% both in the final quarter of 2018 and in December itself. “While there’s been much talk of how the High Street is being undermined by online retailing, it still only represents a relatively small part of overall retail sales, with most shopping still taking place in physical stores.” Black Friday still stokes interest, but most Brits think discounts are overhyped Black Friday is now well and truly entrenched in the shopping calendar. According to Mintel research, last year nearly six in ten (57%) Brits browsed for goods during Black Friday promotions, while 41% made a purchase during the event. It’s proving a big hit with the nation’s 25-34s, of whom 75% said they browsed for goods and 62% made a purchase. While Black Friday has been synonymous with scenes of crowding bargain hunters, last year just 16% of Brits engaged with the event in-store, with the majority of shoppers engaging online  (56%). Electrical goods were the most  popular purchase, bought by 51% of Black Friday consumers in 2017, followed by fashion, which was purchased by 42% of these consumers. Overall, half (51%) of last year’s Black Friday shoppers said the majority of the purchases they made during the promotions were Christmas gifts. Meanwhile, a savvy six in ten (61%) Black Friday shoppers said they waited for the Black Friday promotions before making a purchase. However, despite the hype, some cynics remain as 66% of 2017 Black Friday shoppers felt the discounts were not as good as they’re made out to be. “While Black Friday has become a high profile retail fixture, retailers do run the risk of bringing forward festive spending, but at discounted prices. There is always a fear of missing out, so the actual outcome is the big unknown for how the retail sector will perform this Christmas. Given some evidence of growing disillusionment among shoppers for Black Friday, Mintel predicts that retailers would like to pull back from promotions for this event. We think that this year’s event will be no bigger than last year’s, and that means good news for the amount of money left over to spend in December.” Concluded Richard.

Photos by Lucia Carpio.

Mintel announces three global food and drink trends for 2019

At this time of the year, food and drinks are very much on our minds, as we’re deciding on the menu for our Christmas lunch, or even the venue that offers the best festive food options for our company Christmas party.

Whatever we plan to do, will issues of sustainability, health and wellness,  one way or another, guide our decisions?  Recent reports point to the growing popularity of a Vegan lifestyle and that millennials are going teetotal.  Definitely festive celebrations are not as straight forward as it used to be.

Co-op Winter Dessert Collection.  The Co-op was the first, and continues to be, the only UK retailer to have 100% Fairtrade chocolate bar range. This winter they’re going all out with some spectacular festive flavours including sticky toffee pudding, double chocolate fondant and Christmas pudding chocolate treats.

According to Mintel, a leading market intelligence agency, three forward-looking trends which will lead the momentum of global food and drink innovation in 2019 and beyond in that issues of sustainability, health and wellness, and convenience will inspire formulation, packaging, marketing and more in the years to come:

In Mintel’s 2019 Global Food and Drink Trends report, the three trends revealed are as follows:-  

Evergreen Consumption: A circular view of sustainability that spans the entire product lifecycle requires action from suppliers to consumers.   

Through the Ages: Food and drink will build on today’s dialogue about wellness and transition into more solutions for healthy ageing. 

Elevated Convenience: To match the premium expectations of consumers in the on-demand age, convenience food and drink will get an upgrade.

La Riojana Tilimuqui Fairtrade Organic Malbec available at Waitrose. La Riojana’s Tilimuqui wine is grown in the remote north of Argentina where arid soils give rise to grapes bursting with ripeness. This is an intense Malbec that is a great accompaniment to any Christmas dinner, or to savour over cheese on a wonderful winter night!

Looking ahead, Jenny Zegler, Associate Director, Mintel Food and Drink, said: 

“In 2019, support of and demand for more corporate sustainability programmes will grow as consumers better understand what’s required to get closer to achieving a truly circular food and drink economy. These sustainability efforts will include not only improving access to recycling, but creating products with ingredients that are grown in accordance to regenerative agriculture practices.

“Expect to also see food and drink manufacturers look to the beauty and personal care industry for inspiration for healthy ageing product development. More food and drink will address longevity-related health concerns, be marketed with positive language that rejects terms like ‘anti-ageing’ for its negative connotations, and appeal across ages.   

The All Dark Vegan Chocolate Hamper Collection from Hotel Chocolat this Christmas.

“Finally, we predict the rising segment of consumers who are often on-the-go, yet want to spend more time at home will increase demand for upscale, ‘speed scratch’ solutions and restaurant-quality, ready-to-consume products. As meal kits and foodservice-inspired beverages lead the way, there will also be more opportunities for brands to develop healthy, flavourful, customisable, and quick premium convenience products for breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks and dessert occasions.”

From sportswear to made-to-measure attire, Britain’s gents outperformed ladies in the realm of fashion.

Father’s Day will soon be upon us and as London Fashion Week taking hold in the capital these few days, the latest menswear research from Mintel reveals interesting fashion facts about the nation’s dedicated followers of fashion. 

From their love of sportswear to made-to-measure attire, last year Britain’s gents outperformed their female counterparts in the realm of fashion, according to Mintel's recent study.

The UK men’s clothing market grew by an estimated 3.5% in 2017 to reach a dapper £15.0 billion, as sales of menswear outperformed sales of womenswear. Nevertheless, menswear remains around half the size of the womenswear market which is valued at £28.4 billion, accounting for 26% of total clothing sales.

Making good strides, Mintel forecasts that menswear will grow by a stylish 11% between 2018 and 2022 to reach £17.1 billion. In 2018 alone, men’s clothing sales will grow by an estimated 2.9% to reach £15.4 billion.

When it comes to splashing the cash on fashion, men are proving to be the biggest spenders. Over half (53%) of men spent £50 or over on their last shopping trip, compared to only 39% of women. Male shoppers (18%) are also significantly more likely than women (12%) to have spent over £100.

Looking for the perfect fit, half (49%) of Britain’s male shoppers are interested in getting clothes tailored to their body shape. This comes as a third (33%) of men have returned clothes because they don’t fit well.

Proving quality counts, men are more likely than women to be prepared to spend more on quality clothes that last, with 70% of male shoppers agreeing with this, compared to 64% of female shoppers. The  importance of buying quality clothes rises to 76% of men aged 16-34.

Men are increasingly shopping around for clothing, with supermarkets and online-only retailers now particularly popular. Overall, 35% of men have bought clothes from a supermarket in the last year, whilst 35% have shopped with an online-only retailer.

Looking for ‘Mr. Average’, 27% of male shoppers aged 16-24 want the clothing retailers they shop at to use models that represent the average person, this compares to 16% of men on average.

They may be rich and famous, but it seems their influence may not extend too far, as Mintel research reveals that the use of a celebrity encourages less than one in ten (8%) men to shop with a specific retailer.

Winning the race, there has been a big increase in young men buying sportswear, as 29% of men bought sports clothing in the last three months*, compared to 19% in the three months to December 2016.

Over a third (34%) of male shoppers agree that positive product reviews would encourage them to shop with a specific retailer. This rises to almost half (49%) of men aged 25-34.

Brits hung up on online fashion

Online sales of clothing, fashion accessories and footwear grow by 17% in 2017 - says market intelligence agency Mintel.

As London Fashion Week kicks off today 15th September 2017, it seems that shopping for clothes has never been simpler.   Indeed, the latest research from Mintel reveals that this year Brits are set to spend an impressive £16.2 billion on online sales of clothing, fashion accessories and footwear—at the click of a button.   In 2017, the online fashion market will increase 17.2%, continuing fashion's spot as the most popular category bought online.

Over the past five years, sales of online fashion have soared, doubling in value since 2012. What is more, online sales of fashion have increased to account for 24% of total fashion spend in 2017, up from 17% in 2013. But while online fashion sales continue to show spectacular growth, overall sales of clothing are forecast to grow by just 1.3% in 2017.

Highlighting the popularity of online-only retailers, Mintel research shows the importance which pure plays are having on the clothing and footwear sector, as today they account for approximately 38% of the UK online fashion market.

- UK online fashion sales reach £16.2 billion in 2017.- Online fashion accounts for 24% of total fashion spend in the UK.- 34% of online shoppers have kept unwanted goods due to the hassle involved in returning them.

Over the next five years, the online fashion market will continue to see strong double-digit growth, with the market forecast to increase a further 79% by 2022, reaching just under £29 billion.

Tamara Sender, Senior Fashion Analyst at Mintel, said:
“The strength of the online fashion market stands out as the overall clothing market is struggling, with a continuing shift away from consumers spending their extra money on fashion items to spending more on leisure. The way consumers are shopping for clothes and shoes is changing; there is a buy-now, wear-now mentality and a desire to shop for clothes however and whenever they want, with consumers demanding convenient shopping that fits around their busy lifestyles. Usage and trust in online retailers is still growing. Many of the pure play fashion retailers are still immature businesses and have a degree of novelty value, which is helping to drive sales.”

Images from Mercedes Benz London Fashion Week. by Jonathan Daniel Pryce (Garcon Jon) 

Britain’s men get better with age: 75% of men aged 65 and over feel confident about how they look

Don't know how they do it, but according to a recent research from Mintel, British men are like fine wine in that they get better with age.

London-based MOT Models recently set up a division called RETRO in response to latest developments that the post-war baby boomer generation is leading the way in the world of luxury purchases.  Seen here are two of MOT's top models Remco (43) and his father Aad Van Der Linden (72). Photo by Thomas Kettner.

Luxury automobile Mercedes-Benz has announced the launch of their "First fragrance for Men" to add to their lifestyle high-end fashion accessories.  Designed by master perfumers of his time, Olivier Cresp (Firmenich), the new frangrance "reinterprets and enhances the luxury world of Mercedes-Benz, presented in a luxurious yet masculine shaped bottle".   Highly inspired by the brand, Olivier Cresp has dreamt up a naturally sophisticated essence, tinged with refinement and modernity, He chose to combine citrus fruits among others, bergamot from Calabria and mandarin orange from Italy with the violet leaves absolute whose green facets envelop the fragrance's top notes with originality. The heart of the fragrance plays on an exclusive contrast between the overabundant aquatic notes of cascalone® and the powdery accents of violet.
The vibration is provided by spices, bourbon pepper, nutmeg, and galbanum.
Information and photo from Beautypress.com

According to Mintel, as many as 75% of men aged 65 and over feel confident about the way they look, compared to just over half (56%) of men aged 16-24 and an average of 61% of all men.  What is more, while 67% of all men say they look good for their age, this increases to a self-assured 71% of those aged 65 and over.

Interesting Facts:-* 38% of men check themselves in the mirror throughout the day* The facial skincare market is estimated to decline by 4.7% in 2017* Usage of beard products rises from 18% in 2016 to 23% in 2017

Proving Britain’s men are happy to accept ageing with grace, almost four in five (78%) men agree that it is acceptable to have some wrinkles, while 68% agree that skin ageing is a natural process that can’t be stopped. 

Men’s Grooming Face & Beard Care Kit from Scottish Fine Soaps.
Scented with their invigorating Thistle & Black Pepper fragrance, this new kit contains a gentle Face & Beard Soap, Beard Oil, Moisturiser and a branded hardwood beard comb.

Giorgio Armani SS18 Men's Collection
at Milan Fashion Week.
Source: Giorgio Armani

However, while the majority of men adopt a relaxed attitude towards their appearance, two in five (38%) men say they check themselves in the mirror throughout the day, according to Mintel,  rising to 65% of those aged 16-24.  

And, almost one in five (18%) men enjoy taking selfies, rising to 35% of 16-24s. And while 25-34-year-old men are most likely to say they like posting pictures of themselves on social media (39%), those aged 45-54 (13%) are not averse to uploading the odd image too.

Roshida Khanom, Associate Director, Beauty & Personal Care at Mintel, said: “Today's older men are brimming with self confidence, with high proportions thinking that they look good for their age and feeling confident about the way they look. "Following role models such as Pierce Brosnan, Hugh Grant and Colin Firth, Britain’s older men are adopting a relaxed attitude towards ageing with the majority of men agreeing that ageing is acceptable, and that skin ageing is a natural process. "Whilst advertising in the women’s facial skincare category often features photoshopping to optimise the appearance of skin and reduce the appearance of wrinkles, such images may not appeal to men. Allowing skin to look aged but healthy may instead have greater resonance.”

The men’s facial skincare category in the UK was valued at £104 million in 2016; however, things are not looking too beautiful for future sales, as this year the market is expected to decline 4.7% with sales dropping to £100 million. 

Giorgio Armani SS18 men's collection
at Milan Fashion Week.
Source: Giorgio Armani

Mintel research highlights a less is more approach towards men’s skincare regimes as only 15% of male moisturiser users apply moisturiser more than once a day, whilst 28% use it a few times a week.   Meanwhile, almost three in 10 (28%) men who use facial skincare products use them when their skin feels like it needs them and a quarter (24%) of men who use facial skincare products say they use them when they remember to do so.

Currently, the top three facial skincare products are soap (87%), moisturiser (50%) and lip balm (38%). There has also been a sharp rise in the number of men using facial wipes which grew from 26% in 2016 to 32% in 2017.

Finally, facial hair remains a growing trend amongst British men. Usage of beard products has risen from 18% in 2016 to 23% in 2017 and almost two in five (38%) men say they pay more attention to their facial hair than their facial skin. 

While 68% of men are removing hair from their jawline, more than half (53%) of males agree that it is fashionable to have a beard, according to Mintel.

“The fact that so many men are removing hair from their jawline, but over half agree that it is fashionable to have a beard, suggests that the beard trend may have evolved to a more flexible approach with men shaping their facial hair rather than sporting full beards or opting for a clean shave.” Roshida of Mintel concludes.

Sweet success for seasonal chocolates.

Recently I read a promotion by fashion mail order house Boden in the lead up to the Easter weekend that Clothes are the new Chocolate.  Quite a sweet statement I must say to lure my attention, being both a clothes and a chocolate lover.

Easter Chocolates in Foil in Cello Bag sold at Dobbies.

While fashion retailers have reported mixed results during the Spring launch season, chocolates are one of the areas that have been doing well.

In the UK Brits spent a delicious £374 million on Easter confectionery last year. This figure was provided by retail research experts at Mintel that has revealed that confectionery continues to drive Easter purchases in the UK with 49% of Easter shoppers buying chocolate gifts in 2016.

What is more, expenditure on confectionery accounted for approximately 68% of all Easter product spending.

However, the Mintel report also revealed that across the globe as in the UK seasonal launches accounted for one quarter (25%) of global chocolate new product launches in 2016, the biggest area of chocolate new product development (NPD) according to Mintel Global New Products Database (GNPD).

In 2016, some 28% of seasonal launches globally were positioned for Easter, highlighting the ongoing popularity of eggs, bunnies and other chocolate treats.  This makes Easter a growing retail season to match Christmas.

Those countries accounting for the most Easter chocolate innovation include Brazil, which accounted for 14% of global Easter chocolate product launches, France with an 11% share and South Africa with a 10% share.

"Seasonal chocolate is immune to recessionary pressures as these products are bought on an occasional basis."

Overall, launch activity in the confectionery category was somewhat restrained in 2016. The number of chocolate confectionery launches globally grew by just 3% between 2015 and 2016.

Marcia Mogelonsky, Director of Insight, Mintel Food and Drink, said: “Our research shows that seasonal chocolate tops all chocolate new product development, a testament to the popularity of seasonal treats among consumers across the globe. This reflects the fact that these products are typically bought to help celebrate holidays or special occasions. With this in mind, seasonal chocolate is somewhat immune to recessionary pressures as these products are bought on an occasional basis.”

“In countries where Easter is celebrated, there has been a broad range of new chocolate products coming to market. Easter egg innovation is especially interesting as manufacturers experiment with a range of products, from sweet to savoury. In 2016, the UK market saw growth in Easter treats in terms of both volume and value; however, value growth was highest, suggesting consumers may be investing in slightly more premium chocolate products as brands increasingly expand their offer.” Added Marcia.

UK retail sales to grow 2.5% this December

With the current bout of railway strikes and the just announced post office strikes, one can understand why many of us Brits are shying away from the Christmas high street rush.

A luxury home festive scene set by this plush Claude Armchair in Prussian Blue and matching
 Georgette Footstool In Prussian Blue, both available at Made.com

New research from market intelligence agency Mintel reveals that as many as one in five (20%) Brits are expected to shop online more for this Christmas, rising to 24% of men and 28% of 16-24 year olds. The top three reasons why Brits shopped online for gifts last year were to get cheaper prices (55%), to avoid the crowds (49%) and to shop when it suited them (49%).

According to the new research, Mintel estimates that total UK retail sales will reach £42.2 billion, a growth of 2.5% this December.

Richard Perks, Director of Retail Research at Mintel, said: “When it comes to Christmas shopping, it is increasingly artificial to make a distinction between online and in-store as the two increasingly are working together to suit shoppers’ needs. We are seeing pure players recognise the advantages to having a physical offering, signified by Amazon and Zalando’s interest in moving to the high street. At the same time, a number of high street retailers now price match against online retailers, trying to fight back against the continued belief among shoppers that it's cheaper to buy online.”

Overall, 93% of Brits bought gifts for Christmas 2015. 86% bought gifts in-store and 76% purchased online. Just under one in ten (8%) Brits bought all of their Christmas gifts online, compared to one in five (18%) who bought all of their Christmas gifts in-store.

Richard adds.“The economic background for consumers continues to be favourable. Real incomes are rising and unemployment is falling. There are some worrying signs though. Consumer credit has risen back to record levels and the housing market has weakened a little but overall, the prospects for Christmas remain good.”

Online Xmas shopping will impact UK Retail high street

As Christmas shopping is gathering momentum, experts from market intelligence agency Mintel predict prospects for the upcoming festive season to be good, and expect total UK retail sales will grow 2.5% in December 2016, taking retail sales up to £42.2 billion.

PURE London, a popular trade fair for UK retailers sourcing fashion and accessories.

                                                   

Many of the consumers will shop online, to avoid high street crowds and to surf for cheaper prices while shopping at hours that best suit them, according to Mintel in a recent report.

However a new report released this week predicted that online shopping will drive more fashion stores to close.

PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) and the Local Data Company (LDC) have predicted that as consumer spending habits continue to evolve, UK fashion store numbers on town centres are falling at their fastest rate in several years and fashion is suffering more than the wider retail sector.

The report said there were 2,656 store closures across the UK retail sector in the first six months of the year with only 2,153 openings, the lowest number in half a decade.

Click here to read more.

Photo: © Lucia Carpio.

Sales of Bike Accessories outstrip sales of Bikes, says Mintel

La Tour de France 2015's champion Chris Froome of Great Britain in yellow jersey, winner for the second time,  with his Sky team mates cycling to victory on the final day on the Champs-Elysees in Paris on July 26th.

Speaking from the experience of a concerned wife whose husband has lately exchanged his own car for a bike as his regular commuting vehicle, I can relate to a new research just released by Mintel, the world market intelligence agency, that for many cycling loving Brits, owning a bike is simply the tip of the iceberg as today’s cyclists are splashing out more on the accessories than bikes themselves.

The Trophy Bull Bike Rack from Outline Works, is designed in the silhouette form of an iconic bull head, made from solid steel with a soft touch coating, now available at Bear & Bear.

As the report reveals, it all starts with the bike, but for some, before very long this will be swiftly followed by skin tight shorts, gloves, sunglasses and a whole host of other must have gadgets.

Indeed, the UK market for bicycle accessories, or ‘PACs’ (which Mintel defines as including bicycle parts, accessories and clothing) was valued at £1.25 billion in 2014, running rings around the £956 million Brits spent on bikes in the same year.

Vintage styled 21L durable canvas double pannier bag by Alban with multiple carry options, easily fastens to the back rack of a bicycle, but is also easy to carry thanks to a robust leather handle or detachable shoulder strap. It is constructed from durable 20oz water-resistant coated canvas that will protect the bag and its contents from any weather,
now available at Bear & Bear. 

What’s more, while sales of bikes are set to top the £1 billion mark by the end of this year, Brits will spend an even more impressive £1.35 million on PACs. Over the past five years, sales of PACs have outstripped that of the bicycles market, increasing 28% between 2010 and 2014. Meanwhile, bicycle sales have increased 23% over the same five year period. This year, the average spend on PACs among all 15.8 million cyclists is set to reach £79, while the average spend among the 11.85 million cyclists who ride once a month or more often will reach a wheel spinning £106.

While MAMILs – middle-aged men in Lycra – still rule the roads, there are an increasing number of women now taking to the saddle. Overall, over a third (36%) of Brits ride a bicycle rising to four in ten males (41%), compared to 31% of females, but the number of women taking to two wheels is gaining speed. In 2014, just over a quarter (26%) of women were cyclists. Meanwhile, one in twenty (5%) Brits ride every day, a fifth (21%) mainly cycle at the weekend and some 13% cycle to their place of education or workplace most days.

Michael Oliver, Senior Leisure and Media Analyst at Mintel, said:
“Cycling is no longer regarded simply as a cheap means of transport, a bicycle is now regarded as a lifestyle accessory, an expression of an individual in the same way as driving a premium sports car or belonging to a golf club. This is positive news for accessory suppliers, because it means that many of their potential customers are not buying on price alone, instead brand, quality and product features are also key factors influencing purchase. Ahead, the prospects for the market look extremely positive, given the expected easing of pressure on household incomes and the expectation of further growth in cycling participation levels.”

Magnetic Bicycle Indicators - waterproof
bike lights by Cycl, available at
Bear and Bear.

Amongst current cyclists, lights (27%) and locks (26%) are the most popular bicycle accessory to have been bought in the past year. These are followed by puncture repair kits (23%), water bottles (22%) and spanner or multi-tools (13%). While more specialist accessories such as cycle computers and GPS’s were purchased by one in ten (11%) cyclists, this rose to a fifth (21%) of frequent cyclists who ride most days or at least 2-3 days per week. The same was true of action or helmet cameras which were purchased by 8% of all cyclists, but twice as many (16%) frequent cyclists.

In terms of clothing, the top five purchases amongst current cyclists are: cycling helmets (22%), hi-vis jackets (18%), cycling gloves (18%), cycling shoes (13%) and cycling longs or leggings (13%). Again, purchase rises considerably amongst most frequent cyclists with almost twice as many of these cyclists buying cycling shoes (25%) and cycling gloves (33%).

Scare or Dare - this Halloween, or visit Terror and Wonder at the British Library, London

Want to get into the mood this Halloween?

 

Image taken from the series ‘Whitby Goths’ by Martin Parr, Magnum photos/ Rocket Gallery, 2014 – courtesy British Library.

You can put on scary make-up and costumes to Scare or Dare your friends and neighbours, or visit Terror and Wonder: The Gothic Imagination presently on until January 20 2015 at the British Library , and explore Gothic culture’s roots in British literature and celebrating 250 years since the publication of the first Gothic novel.

Alongside the manuscripts of classic novels such as Frankenstein, Dracula and Jane Eyre, the exhibition brings the dark and macabre to life with artefacts, old and new.

 

Film still of Elsa Lanchester and Boris Karloff in The Bride of Frankenstein, 1939 © Universal / The Kobal Collection.

Highlights of the exhibition include a vampire slaying kit and 18th and 19th century Gothic fashions, as well as one of Alexander McQueen’s iconic catwalk creations shown below.

Also on display is a model of the Wallace and Gromit Were-Rabbit, showing how Gothic literature has inspired varied and colourful aspects of popular culture in exciting ways over centuries.

Celebrating how British writers have pioneered the genre, Terror and Wonder takes the first Gothic novel, The Castle of Otranto by Horace Walpole, and exhibits treasures from the Library’s collections to carry the story forwards to the present day,

underpinning how Gothic fiction has evolved and influenced film, fashion, music, art and the Goth subculture.

Lead curator of the exhibition, Tim Pye, says: “Gothic is one the most popular and influential modes of literature and I’m delighted that Terror and Wonder is celebrating its rich 250 year history. The exhibition features an amazingly wide range of material, from stunningly beautiful medieval artefacts to vinyl records from the early Goth music scene, so there is truly something for everyone”.

Coinciding with the exhibition is a brand new series of photographs of the Whitby Goth Weekend by the award-winning photographer Martin Parr. Commissioned specially for this exhibition, the photographs take a candid look at the biannual event, which takes place in the town famously featured in Dracula, capturing its diversity and energy. 

It seems many Brits today are embracing this unique American tradition more than ever before, according to new research from Mintel, which reveals that retail sales of Halloween products reached £230 million in 2013 and are expected to grow to around £240 million this year.

Indeed, the report reveals that the number of Brits spending on products or services for Halloween rises from two-fifths in 2013 to as many as three fifths (58%) of 16-24's and over half (55%) of those aged 25-34.

Furthermore, British parents who on Halloween night are the most likely to have a fright as three in five (60%) bought products or services* for Halloween in 2013, rising to 73% of Brits with children aged 6 to 12.   Whilst two in five (40%) parents bought trick or treat confectionery, one in four (25%) bought fancy dress. However it seems that it is not only parents who are getting into the spirit of Halloween as more than one in four (28%) Brits bought trick-or-treat confectionery in 2013 and one in seven (14%) bought fancy dress. In addition, one in ten (10%) bought decorations, 9% bought special food or drink to have at home and 8% went out to a party or event.

John Mercer, Senior European Retail Analyst at Mintel, said:

“Halloween is firmly established on the retail calendar and continues to grow in importance, but it is an event marked by frugal shopping from consumers: average spend is low and confectionery is by far the most popular category to spend on.

“For stores, the gains go beyond a bite of the £240 million market: Halloween-themed ranges, merchandising and in-store events can have a “Santa’s grotto” effect, providing shoppers with reasons to visit stores, driving footfall and encouraging impulse purchases.” John continues.

In addition, the UK food and drink sector seems to be tapping into the spooky season as the number of food and drink products launched with a mention of Halloween grew 263% between 2009 and 2013. Looking beyond the UK, it seems that the season’s excitement is also spreading, with the number of food and drink products launched globally referencing the event growing by 194% in the five year period to 2013.

Chris Brockman, Research Manager, Food & Drink EMEA at Mintel, said:

“It appears that Halloween has evolved from being a largely child-focused holiday with a focus on trick-or-treating. Adults have now adopted it as a fully-fledged excuse to throw parties and dress up in ghoulish outfits.”

*NB: Halloween products include themed trick or treat confectionery, fancy dress, decorations, toys and games, special food or drink to have at home (eg party food) and fireworks.Halloween services include hosting or going out to a party, event or night out.Mintel's Seasonal Shopping UK 2014 report is available to purchase.

UK Consumer Spending for attending live sport to beat Olympic record by 2016

What a summer it’s already been for sports fans in the UK, reaching the ultimate climax this weekend with Wimbledon women’s and men’s final matches, Formula I Grand Prix in Silverstone and the Grand Depart of the Tour de France kicking off in Yorkshire for its first three-day cycling race from Leeds to London before crossing the channel to France.

Petra Kvitova (right) of Czech Republic is 2014 Wimbledon Women's Singles Champion, beating Canada's Euginie Bouchard in a stunning victory of 6-3 6-0 to win her second Wimbledon title.
This year, Wimbledon officials enforced its all-white rule on players' apparel by banning coloured undergarments.

According to new market research by Mintel, Britain’s support for live sport is growing, although Britain’s sports fans may be hanging their heads after the defeats in the World Cup, Wimbledon and the Cricket’s Test Series against Sri Lanka this summer.

With the culmination of the World Cup, the Tour de France and Wimbledon, this weekend should be sports heaven for the UK’s sports fans with over half of Brits (55%) having watched live football matches and 42% live tennis matches via any method in the past year.   Indeed, with more than a third (35%) of Brits classified as current cyclists, the Tour de France too should receive high levels of spectatorship.  In addition, it seems Brits are beginning to be bowled over by cricket. Whilst one in five (21%) Brits said they watched a live cricket match via any method in 2013, this figure rose to almost a quarter (24%) in 2014.

For the first time since the peak of the London Olympics in 2011, consumer expenditure on attending live sport is rising, with sales forecast to reach £1.4 billion in 2014, an impressive 7% ahead of 2013 and set to reach £1.5 billion by 2016, topping the Olympic ticket sales of 2012.

Paul Davies, Senior Leisure and Technology Analyst at Mintel, said:"The London Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2012 took the value of the spectator sports market to a level never seen before, as spectators made every effort to attend the first Olympic Games held in the UK since 1948. A year later, a seat on Centre Court to witness Andy Murray’s first Wimbledon title proved to be one of the ‘golden tickets’ to have in 2013, alongside England’s home series victory in the Ashes test series against Australia." Paul said."In recent years, the pull of potentially witnessing British success has boosted sports such as tennis and cricket, something which is likely to drive crowds to the Commonwealth Games in 2014, the Rugby World Cup in 2015 and the return of the home Ashes test series the same year. As a result, the value of the spectator sports market is now expected to return to and even exceed the level seen in 2011 (when the majority of Olympic tickets were sold)." Paul added.

It seems that for Brits, watching sport live at the game is enjoyed for the atmosphere of the crowd – with a third (31%) of event spectators saying it is generally worth paying to attend live sport events purely for the atmosphere.

As to where in the country are the sports fans gathering?  It seems that London holds the most sports fans with nine in 10 (90%) Londoners watching live sport in the past year.Yorkshire, Humberside are second with four in five (82%), and the North and Scotland at 78%. The smallest number of enthusiasts however, are in the South East and East Anglia where three in four (75%) have enjoyed live sport in the past year, the South East and East Anglia as well as East and West Midlands stand at 76%.