The emergence of weight-loss drugs such as Ozempic and Wegovy (GLP-1RAs), does not yet pose a significant threat to UK grocers. However, we expect the uptake of weight-loss drugs to rise, which will deepen volume declines in snacking categories. At the same time, demand for innovative, healthy ingredient-led ranges will surge. Grocers are already adapting their ranges by limiting the number of high-fat, high-salt and high-sugar items on offer, and must continue to implement these changes in the short term.
15% of UK consumers currently use these weight-loss drugs, according to GlobalData’s July 2025 monthly UK survey, with usage concentrated among affluent AB consumers – those who can afford to buy them privately – or those who meet strict NHS prescription criteria.
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Though weight-loss drugs are typically used for two years, their impact during this time can shape lifelong healthier eating habits. This will require grocers to respond with healthier options. To attract and retain these consumers, grocers must promote ingredient-led products such as high-protein foods and beverages. Increased investment in product innovation is essential.
The trend toward less casual snacking may encourage meal planning
Recent initiatives, such as Marks & Spencer’s Good Gut range and Tesco’s Plant Chef line, show how grocers can carve out new and appealing health-focused niches. Continuing to innovate in this manner will help maintain relevance with young, health-conscious consumers. This dietary shift will be challenging for value-oriented grocers and discounters due to the margin-led range focus on prepackaged and ambient food and drink options, and for Iceland, given its model of highly processed frozen food. Frozen packs of vegetables and fruit for smoothies, as well as more plant-based or vegan options, and meal prep kits with frozen meat or protein, may help sustain consumer appeal.
A significant 81% of weight-loss drug users are parents, implying that the drive for healthier lifestyles will affect entire families as they will likely purchase more nutritious options for themselves and their children. More families may start opting for home-cooked meals over convenience foods, which could harm sales of categories such as ready meals, food-to-go, confectionery, snacks and sugary drinks. The trend toward less casual snacking may also encourage meal planning and increase demand for meal kit subscriptions, such as Gousto and HelloFresh, as these services are well-suited to busy families. Major UK grocers already offer online recipes, sell relevant products and provide home delivery. They should consider launching their own subscription models to remain competitive as demand shifts.
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