UK Thanksgiving Growth Attributed to Increasing Demand for US-inspired Foods by Retailers

November 1, 2025

Thanksgiving’s Rising popularity Across The United Kingdom

What was once a uniquely American tradition is now capturing the hearts – and appetites – of people across the United Kingdom. Thanksgiving, traditionally celebrated in the United States, is experiencing a surge in popularity in Britain, driven by an increased thankfulness for American cuisine and a growing desire for unique cultural experiences. This shift is reshaping retail and hospitality landscapes as businesses adapt to meet the burgeoning demand.

Retailers and restaurants nationwide are reporting meaningful increases in sales and reservations leading up to the November holiday. This boost is fueled by widespread enthusiasm for american flavors and an increasing number of American expatriates residing in the UK. The growing trend is a testament to the global appeal of food and shared cultural moments.

Increased Demand For Traditional Thanksgiving Fare

Pipers Farm, a devon-based producer, reported a remarkable 38% increase in sales of turkeys and related Thanksgiving products in the two weeks preceding Thanksgiving last year. Anticipating even greater demand, the farm has expanded its product range and turkey sizes for this year. This highlights the tangible impact of the trend on food producers and suppliers.

Online retailer Ocado has observed a 440% year-over-year jump in searches for “Thanksgiving,” with “pumpkin spice” searches soaring by over 550%. Sales data reveals a broader embrace of American food items, including a 410% increase in herr’s buffalo blue cheese curls and a 202% rise in Newman’s Own ranch dressing.

Product	Year-over-Year Sales Increase
Herr’s Buffalo blue Cheese Curls	410%
Newman’s Own ranch Dressing	202%
Pumpkin Spice Products	550%+

Generational Shift And Cultural Adoption

Recent research indicates that younger generations are at the forefront of this trend. A study found that 42% of Gen Z and Millennials in the UK have participated in a Thanksgiving meal, with 16% planning to host or attend their first one this November. Over half (53%) believe that American holidays, including thanksgiving and Halloween, are becoming increasingly prominent in the British calendar.

Dan Elton, Chief Customer Officer at Ocado Retail, noted that the “love of American food culture” is directly influencing consumer purchases, ranging from ranch dressing and marshmallows to macaroni and cheese. This reflects a broader trend of experiential eating, where consumers seek themed menus, opportunities for social connection, and limited-edition offerings.

According to market research firm Mintel, interest in American-style food has sharply risen over the past two years, especially among younger demographics. More than half of British adults (58%) are now interested in trying Southern US dishes like Louisiana gumbo, up from 52% in early 2024 and increasing to 67% by mid-2025, with an impressive 81% among Gen Z consumers. Approximately one in five Britons have visited an American-style restaurant, rising to nearly one in three younger consumers.

Restaurants And Expatriate Influence

London’s CUT at 45 Park Lane has expanded its thanksgiving service due to increased bookings, now accommodating around 180 guests throughout the day and offering Thanksgiving-inspired snacks at Bar 45. Elliott Grover, Culinary Director, reports a doubling of bookings compared to last year, attributable to both American guests and newcomers eager to experience the holiday.

A surge in Americans relocating to the UK,possibly influenced by political factors,may also contribute to the holiday’s prominence. US applications for British citizenship reached a record high of over 6,100 last year, a 26% increase from 2023, with a 40% year-on-year increase during the final quarter of 2024.

Whole Foods Market UK reports that demand for Thanksgiving items now rivals that leading up to Christmas, with a rush of online orders as soon as they become available. according to Izzie Peskett,Head of Marketing,the holiday has evolved “less about where you’re from and more about embracing the warmth and generosity of the occasion.”

The Future of Thanksgiving In The UK

The increasing popularity of Thanksgiving in the UK suggests a long-term trend, as consumers continue to embrace new culinary experiences and cultural traditions. This trend demonstrates the evolving nature of holiday celebrations and the impact of globalization on food culture. While initially driven by american expatriates, Thanksgiving is now capturing the affection of a broader British audience.

Did You Know? The tradition of sharing a harvest feast dates back centuries, with early Thanksgiving celebrations rooted in agricultural cycles and communal gratitude.

Pro Tip: Planning a Thanksgiving feast? Don’t forget to pre-order your turkey and other essential ingredients to avoid disappointment.

Frequently Asked Questions About thanksgiving In The UK

What is driving the popularity of Thanksgiving in the UK? The growing interest in American cuisine, the desire for unique cultural experiences, and the increasing number of American expats are all contributing factors.

Which generations are most likely to celebrate Thanksgiving in the UK? Gen Z and Millennials are leading the charge, with a significant percentage having already participated in or planning to host a Thanksgiving meal.

What types of American foods are most popular among UK consumers? Classic Thanksgiving dishes like turkey and pumpkin pie,and also items like ranch dressing,mac and cheese,and buffalo-flavored snacks,are gaining significant traction.

Is Thanksgiving becoming as popular as other holidays in the UK? While it’s not yet on par with traditional British holidays,Thanksgiving is rapidly gaining popularity and is increasingly viewed as a significant cultural event.

How are UK restaurants responding to the increased demand for Thanksgiving? Many restaurants, like CUT at 45 Park Lane, are expanding their services and introducing Thanksgiving-inspired menus to accommodate the growing number of diners.

What do you think – will Thanksgiving become a mainstay on the UK calendar? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

What specific retailer strategies have proven most effective in increasing Thanksgiving food sales in the UK?

The Rise of Thanksgiving in the UK: Beyond American Expatriates

Thanksgiving, traditionally a North American holiday, is experiencing a notable surge in popularity within the United Kingdom. While initially celebrated primarily by American expats and those with close ties to the US, the holiday is now increasingly embraced by a broader UK audience. This growth isn’t happening in a vacuum; it’s directly linked to a rising consumer appetite for US-inspired foods and flavours, actively fuelled by UK retailers. The date for thanksgiving in 2025 is November 27th, and preparations are already underway.

Retailer Strategies Driving Demand for Thanksgiving Foods

UK supermarkets and food retailers are key drivers behind this trend.They’ve strategically expanded their offerings of traditional Thanksgiving ingredients and prepared meals,capitalizing on the growing interest in American cuisine.

Here’s how retailers are contributing:

* Expanded Product Ranges: Major supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Asda, and Morrisons now stock key Thanksgiving staples like cranberries, pumpkin puree, sweet potatoes, and stuffing mixes well in advance of November.

* Pre-Prepared Thanksgiving Meals: Offering complete, ready-to-heat Thanksgiving dinners simplifies the holiday for consumers, removing the barrier of complex cooking. These meals cater to various group sizes, from couples to large families.

* Marketing & Promotion: Retailers actively promote Thanksgiving-related products through in-store displays,online advertising,and social media campaigns. This increased visibility normalizes the holiday and encourages trial.

* American Food Aisles: The expansion of dedicated “American Food” aisles within supermarkets provides a permanent space for US-inspired products, fostering ongoing interest beyond the Thanksgiving season.

* Thanksgiving-Themed Events: Some retailers are even hosting in-store thanksgiving tasting events and cooking demonstrations, further engaging consumers. London restaurants are also offering Thanksgiving meals, as reported by Londonist https://londonist.com/london/things-to-do/thanksgiving-in-london-where-to-eat-american-food-special-events-menus.

The Broader Trend: US Food Culture in the UK

The growth of Thanksgiving isn’t isolated. It’s part of a larger trend of increasing UK consumer interest in American food culture. This includes:

* American Diner Popularity: the continued success of American-style diners across the UK demonstrates a strong appetite for US cuisine.

* BBQ & Southern Food: American BBQ and Southern comfort food have gained important traction, with numerous specialist restaurants and food trucks emerging.

* Influence of US Food Media: American cooking shows and food-focused content on streaming platforms and social media expose UK audiences to new flavours and culinary traditions.

* Demand for US Snacks & Sweets: A growing market for American snacks, candies, and breakfast cereals reflects a desire for authentic US food experiences.

Benefits of the Thanksgiving Trend for UK Retailers

Embracing Thanksgiving presents several benefits for UK retailers:

* Increased Sales: The holiday provides a significant sales boost during a traditionally quieter period between halloween and Christmas.

* Attracting New Customers: Offering Thanksgiving products can attract customers who might not typically shop at a particular retailer.

* Brand Differentiation: Being an early adopter of the Thanksgiving trend can position a retailer as innovative and responsive to consumer demand.

* Cross-Selling Opportunities: Thanksgiving purchases often lead to additional sales of related items, such as drinks, desserts, and tableware.

Thanksgiving Menu Staples & UK Sourcing

While traditionally reliant on imported ingredients, UK retailers are increasingly sourcing Thanksgiving staples locally. This reduces costs and supports British farmers.

* Turkey: While some consumers still prefer American-bred turkeys,many opt for locally-reared British turkeys,often available with specific Thanksgiving readiness guides.

* Cranberries: Even though cranberries aren’t native to the UK, they are now grown commercially in certain regions, offering a locally-sourced alternative.

* Pumpkins & Sweet potatoes: These vegetables are readily available from UK farms during the autumn harvest season.

* Stuffing & Gravy: Retailers offer both traditional American stuffing mixes and locally-produced gravy options.

The Future of Thanksgiving in the UK

The trend suggests that Thanksgiving will continue to grow in popularity in the UK. Retailers are likely to further expand their Thanksgiving offerings, perhaps including more specialized products and experiences. The holiday may even evolve to incorporate uniquely British elements, creating a hybrid party that blends American traditions with local customs. The increasing demand for US-inspired foods, coupled with savvy retail strategies, ensures that Thanksgiving is becoming a firmly established fixture on the UK calendar.