“Increasing Work Hours And Fast-Paced Lifestyles”
As individuals strive to balance professional and personal commitments, the demand for convenient meal solutions has surged. According to a report by the International Labour Organization (ILO), the average Middle East and Africa working hours have increased by approximately 8% over the past decade, highlighting the growing pressure on time management. Consequently, consumers are opting for quick and hassle-free meal options that require minimal preparation and offer substantial time savings.
The ready-to-eat food market has greatly benefited from this shift, as these products cater to the needs of busy individuals seeking convenient, nutritious, and instantly consumable meals. The fast-paced lifestyle trend is particularly prevalent among urban populations, where hectic schedules leave limited time for traditional meal preparation. This has driven manufacturers to innovate and introduce a wide range of ready-to-eat products that cater to diverse taste preferences and dietary requirements.
Furthermore, the increasing number of dual-income households has contributed to the market's expansion. In countries such as the U.S. and the U.K., over 60% of households now have both partners employed, leaving less time for cooking elaborate meals. This demographic shift has led to a surge in demand for ready-to-eat products that can be conveniently consumed at work, during commutes, or at home after long working hours.
For instance,
- In March 2023 International Labour Organization (ILO), Cambodia reported an average of approximately 2,456 working hours per year in 2017, equating to nearly 47 hours per week, the highest among 66 countries studied. This indicates a substantial time constraint for meal preparation, driving the demand for ready-to-eat food products
In countries such as Mexico and Checzh Republic, employees often work more than 2,000 hours annually, leading to a strong preference for quick and hassle-free meal options, including ready-to-eat products.
As busy lifestyles become more prevalent worldwide, the ready-to-eat food market is poised for robust growth, driven by the unwavering need for quick, accessible, and satisfying meal solutions.
