During pandemic lockdowns, many Britons got into the habit of buying groceries locally and/or online, with ethics, provenance, and convenience becoming central factors in their decision-making. As the UK emerges from the crisis, how can brands in the sector adapt to these new priorities?

As the economic fallout of COVID-19 is exacerbated by credit cuts and climbing energy bills, 3 million households are struggling to afford essentials. With governments failing to step in with tangible solutions, rather than aim at aspiration, people want brands to support lower-income households.

Britons are feeling increasingly passionate about reducing their food waste footprint and buying from more ethical brands. Community-focussed app Too Good To Go is helping diners eat in a more sustainable way, connecting them with popular restaurants and cafes that want to shift their leftovers.

Wagestream lets people see what they have earned in real-time and can provide access to their wages at any time during their pay cycle. This can prevent people from going into overdraft or taking out expensive payday loans – particularly important during the financial uncertainty of the pandemic.