With summer holidays in full swing, new research has found that picnics have overtaken parties as Brits’ favourite social occasion, with a third of the nation (35%) claiming to pre-prepare ‘quick-nic’ sets so they are always primed and ready to dine outside, with key items like picnic blankets, crockery and cutlery stored inside their car boots.
In the research by Japanese food brand YO!, commissioned to understand how UK dining habits have evolved, half (51%) of Brits rate picnics as their favourite social occasion with nearly three quarters (72%) saying it’s a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors and 62% claiming it’s by far the most relaxing way to spend time with family and friends due to being away from the pressures of home. Over half (52%) noted that it’s a more cost-effective way of socialising too.
These views have been echoed by Dr Andy Cope, ‘Doctor of Happiness’, who said: “I’m thinking of trademarking ‘Picnic Power’ because picnics encapsulate so many aspects of happiness; fresh air, family/friends, good food, laughter. After two decades of academic research, I’m beginning to think picnics might be the best kept secret of happiness.”
