The UK’s 10 shopping categories growing fastest in popularity

Vaping

▲ 108.4%

Brightly coloured disposable vapes are the star performer for a second year running. The category has more than doubled in value and volumes.

 

Nicotine replacement

▲ 19.7%

Nicotine replacement products have shifted an extra 6.6 million packs. Innovation and marketing by the likes of Nordic Spirit has been key to growth.

 

Dried herbs & spices

▲ 7.4%

The rise in cooking at home has seen an extra 828 thousand kilos of chilli powder, fennel seeds, turmeric and the like go through tills.

 

Cosmetics

▲ 6.5%

Brits have been beautifying themselves as a pick-me-up. Affordable lines with a high-end feel have been the chief beneficiaries of this trend. 

 

Sport & energy drinks

▲ 6.4%

The category has shifted an extra 81.4 million litres, driven chiefly by US sensation Prime. The likes of Red Bull and Monster have had a major impact, too.

 

Cold & flu remedies

▲ 4.9%

With Covid behaviours a fading memory, Brits have become more likely to pick up coughs and sneezes. Cold & flu products have sold 9.6 million more packs.

 

Paediatric analgesics

▲ 3.9%

More delicate than adults, post-Covid kids are also more susceptible to sore throats and sniffles. And then there’s all the usual tummy aches and earaches…

 

Female skincare

▲ 3.8%

As with cosmetics, the rise in female skincare is a sign of Brits seeking affordable treats. The #budgetbeauty trend has helped sell an extra 5.1 million packs.

 

Frozen ready meals

▲ 3.3%

Affordable and convenient with a long life, frozen ready meals have benefited from demand for restaurant-style dishes at home.

 

Flour

▲ 3.1%

Amateur bakers are back at their ovens – but they’re keeping an eye on their budgets. Flour’s gain has been driven by more affordable own-label lin