UK drives massive growth as it smashes £2bn mark

The market for ready meals inEuropeis set to tip €10 billion (£6.77 billion) by 2011.

Last year, in theUKalone the market hit the£2 billion mark, making this country the biggest consumer of ready meals inEurope, according to research by Mintel.

Healthy varieties have driven the market growth, with ready meals beginning to lose their coach-potato image.

Mintel consumer analyst Michelle Strutton said: “TheUKis still the king of convenience, with its ready meals the most advanced inEurope.”

UKretailers are also cited as pushing forward market growth. “Leading retailers such as M&S are quick to react to new consumer trends, so offer a wide variety of exciting meals,” said Strutton.