Online takeaway and retail platform Just Eat has seen festive spending increase as Brits shopped for last-minute gifting, groceries and takeaways over the Christmas period.
Over 17 million orders were processed in the UK in December, with customers turning to the platform for last-minute gifts. On Christmas Day itself, over 145,000 orders were placed through the platform.
Grocery orders made up 40% of all Christmas Day deliveries as shoppers panic bought forgotten items and missing desserts.
Pigs in blanket orders soared week-on-week in the run up to Christmas, with 13,000 packs sold in December. Searches for turkey peaked on December 23 and 24.
The last hour of New Year’s Eve also saw more than 4,500 orders placed as shoppers bought prosecco and champagne. New Year’s Day orders shifted to wellness as sales of coconut water and sport drinks rose 132% as over 3,000 orders were placed.
Takeaways were also popular as orders for Chinese cuisine more than doubled on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve, and attracted over 350,000 searches in December.
Just Eat UK commercial director Leigh Phillipson said: “December is a fast-paced month where routines shift and convenience really comes into its own, we see customers leaning into familiar comfort foods and last minute treats as they celebrate with friends and family.
“However, it was clear to see that customers quickly pivoted to recovery and healthier choices on 1st Jan, aiming to get off on the right foot and take part in the health-led trends that we’ll see continue to gain momentum in 2026.
“From Chinese takeaways to a sharp rise in on-demand grocery, the data reflects how Just Eat supports customers through changing needs across the month, while helping our restaurant and retail partners capture demand at critical moments.”
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