Red meat and dairy expected to steal the crown at Coronation

As the Coronation of King Charles approaches, analysts at AHDB are predicting a surge in sales of red meat and dairy as people indulge in a feast fit for a King.

With royal celebrations taking place across the UK, an increase in food spend is predicted as street parties and BBQs are enjoyed by the nation.

The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee last year saw a 50 per cent increase in burgers, with an extra 853,000 kg bought across the UK during the Jubilee week (Kantar, w/e 5 June 22 vs average 51 w/e 29 May 22).

Sausage rolls were also a firm favourite, with volumes up 30 per cent, followed by a 28 per cent rise in pork pie purchases and a nine per cent increase in sausages sold.

The dairy sector was also delivered a boost, with an additional 724,000 litres of fresh cream sold, a rise of 33 per cent compared to an average week in 2022. Cheese also saw a lift, with an extra 228,000 kg bought – up two per cent.

AHDB Senior Retail Insight Manager Kim Heath said: “Brits love a party, so even adhoc events such as the King’s Coronation provides an excellent opportunity to boost sales of both red meat and dairy.”

The coronation also coincides with the return of our month-long ‘Love BBQ’ campaign, which encourages consumers to fire up their grills and try delicious and easy barbecue pork, beef, and lamb recipes.

And with Ken Hom's Coronation roast rack of lamb with Asian-style marinade announced as one of the official coronation dishes, analysts are predicting a rise in sales of the meat.

AHDB Head of Marketing Carrie McDermid said: “We’re delighted to see roast rack of lamb on the menu for King Charles III’s coronation – a great choice for a once in a lifetime celebration with family and friends.

“Not only does Ken Hom’s royal recipe highlight the fantastic flavour and versatility of UK lamb, with the King’s passion for the environment in mind, it also highlights the important role British livestock farmers play in sustainable food production.

“We hope the Coronation celebrations will encourage more UK households than ever to enjoy lamb from the UK, which is produced to world-class food and farming standards as part of a healthy, balanced diet.”

To find out more about the importance of events for meat and dairy please see AHDB’s report.