Bacon Takes the Crown – The 2024 British Sandwich Week.

May is upon us, and with it comes a glorious week dedicated to our national treasure: the sandwich. From May 20th to 26th, 2024, we celebrate British Sandwich Week, a time to indulge in all things bready and delicious. The British Sandwich & Food to Go Association is the trade body behind the celebratory week. Check out their website for full details or to learn more.

Move over, chicken. There’s a new king in town, and it loves a good rasher. This year, bacon has dethroned the long-reigning champion to become Britain’s favourite sandwich filling. Bacon reigns supreme across the nation. From Scotland and Wales in the west to the North, East, and South of England, this crispy delight is the undisputed favourite. However, the Midlands still hold out for chicken, while Londoners seem to be embracing vegetarian options with open arms (think egg, cheese, and veggie combos).

Butty Bliss:

But where did this love affair with the sandwich begin? Believe it or not, the concept can be traced back to the 18th century, with the 4th Earl of Sandwich credited with its creation. The story goes that he desired a meal he could enjoy while gambling, thus inventing the ingenious combination of bread and filling.

Fast forward to today, and the sandwich remains a cornerstone of British cuisine. From the classic coronation chicken to the ever-popular cheese and pickle, it’s a versatile and convenient meal option loved by all.

The top 5 fillings for 2024?

Bacon takes the gold, followed by chicken, cheese, ham, and tuna.

Premium Power:

Brits are willing to splurge. 75% of consumers are happy to spend up to £5 on a sandwich made with premium bread. This translates to an average price premium of £1.78 for a more luxurious sarnie.

Where do you find these gourmet delights? Coffee shops are the undisputed kings of the premium sandwich realm, with 73% of consumers looking to them for their high-end sarnie fix.

Beyond the Basics:

Brits aren’t just after the classics when it comes to premium sandwiches. Almost half (53%) purchase one every week, with exciting options like baguettes (35%), paninis (22%), and ciabattas (15%) taking centre stage.

Health is King:

But it’s not just about taste – health is a major driver for premium sandwich purchases. This aligns perfectly with the growing focus on health and wellness trends.

How best to celebrate British Sandwich Week?

This week is your golden opportunity to showcase your creativity and put a spotlight on your delicious sandwich offerings. Here are some ideas:

Get Creative with Fillings: Think beyond the classics. Offer limited-edition sandwiches featuring unique flavour combinations or seasonal ingredients.

Host a Sandwich Competition: Get your customers involved by hosting a competition for the best sandwich creation. Offer a prize or discount to the winner.

Promote British Ingredients: Highlight the use of locally sourced British ingredients in your sandwiches.

Essential Equipment:

To ensure you’re ready to meet the demand during British Sandwich Week, having the right catering equipment is essential. Here are some key players:

Panini Presses: Key for creating toasted sandwiches with perfectly melted cheese and crispy exteriors.

Griddles: Ideal for searing steaks, vegetables, and even creating those perfect grill marks on your bread.

Food Prep: Food processors, slicers, and dicers will help you streamline your sandwich making process.

Refrigeration: Keeping ingredients fresh is crucial. Ensure you have adequate refrigeration space for your sandwich fillings.

Whether you call it a butty, sarnie, piece, bap, barm, cob, or anything else under the sun, one thing’s for certain – the humble sandwich holds a special place in British hearts. So, next time you’re grabbing a sandwich, be sure to check out all the options. You might just discover a new favourite, whether it’s a classic with a twist or a taste bud-tingling fusion creation.