M&S Family Matters Index finds that more than half of famillies want to eat more healthily this summer
Eating more healthily is a top priority for families this summer.
That’s according to M&S’s latest Family Matters Index, which found that 53 per cent of families want to improve their diets in the coming weeks, and 47 per cent would like to exercise more regularly.
Despite the squeeze on finances, 61 per cent are still planning a summer holiday. But while family optimism is up 2 per cent since the last index in November at 42 per cent, it has fallen heavily from the 51 per cent seen in March 2021.
The demand for a health kick may be inspired by the third (33 per cent) of families concerned about getting enough nutritious food – the fastest-growing concern since the Family Matters Index launched in March 2021 (up 11 per cent), as well as the 54 per cent of Brits concerned about their family’s health. Younger generations in particular are worried about their family’s health (57 per cent).
Cost-of-living concerns
Cost of living is cited as a top concern by 82 per cent of UK families, up 10 per cent since the end of last year. The future impact of climate change (64 per cent) and divisions across the country (59 per cent) also remain key issues.
This quarter, the overall Family Matters Index score is 53, remaining consistent from November 2021. The score is based on a scale of 0-100, with 100 being highest, and a mid-point score of 50 or above representing a positive, optimistic perspective.
Maria Pickett, head of food customer insight at M&S, said: “Our latest index suggests cost-of-living concerns will continue to rise over the coming months, with value set to become even more important to families. At M&S Food, we’re focused on delivering our trusted value promise, which matters more than ever to our customers. Trusted value means offering great value food without compromising on quality and freshness, sourcing standards or at the expense of our suppliers.
“Earlier this year we announced new investment in our value proposition – we’ve invested over £100 million in the past three years. At the centre is our Remarksable range, made up of everyday items that families shop week-in week-out, all price benchmarked against key competitors.
”Alongside this, our Fresh Market Specials across stores offer a rotating menu of fresh, high-quality produce at great value, alongside our Baker’s Specials. We’re also launching Bigger Pack Better Value choices for customers and offering kids eat free across our cafés during the school holidays this year.”
