As the trend for premium at-home dining continues to grow, Waitrose has reported a rise in sales of premium drinks, with customers seeking to replicate the full restaurant experience in the comfort of their own homes.
The supermarket noted an increase in sales of premium gins, including a 75% lift for 135 East Hyopo Japanese Dry Gin, and a 48% rise in sales of Tanqueray Rangpur Lime Gin compared to last year.
Searches for cocktail recipes on Waitrose.com have also surged by 220%. “It’s clear shoppers are embracing more premium options and looking to recreate the bar experience at home,” the supermarket said.
This trend is part of a wider shift towards premiumisation in home dining, with customers turning to premium ready meals and meal deals as well options such as fillet steak, lobster tails and caviar, Waitrose reported.
The move towards indulgent food and drink experiences at home mirrors the rise of the ‘dinner party aesthetic’ trend, which has taken over social media, the supermarket said. Content creators such as Matilda Bea and Sisters Sharing Style are helping to popularise this trend with elaborate table settings and décor.
Maddy Wilson, director of Waitrose own brand, said: “This year the at-home dining experience has been elevated and we’re seeing customers turn to more premium options to replicate the maximum taste and minimal washing-up experience of a restaurant at home more.
“This shift to premiumisation comes as customers look more towards a sense of escapism without leaving the front door, curating their own set menus through selecting their own meal deal choices. They’re also paying attention to aesthetics, setting the table to craft a more elevated dining experience.”



