Fish & Chip Sauce?

Heinz has unveiled its latest condiment, which the company is calling a revamp of the traditional tartare sauce. The food manufacturer is encouraging consumers to view the new sauce, named Fish & Chips Sauce, as "Tartare 2.0". The packaging lists the contents as "Tartare Sauce" and details ingredients such as gherkins, dill, salt, parsley, and mustard. Tartare sauce is typically composed of mayonnaise, chopped gherkins, capers, and herbs like tarragon and dill and is a classic addition to seafood dishes like fish and chips. Heinz described its new product as a “fresh and herby condiment” which was “poised to become Britain’s new go-to pairing for fish dinners – and, of course, the nation’s beloved dish, fish & chips”. It went on: “If tartare is the OG fish condiment, then think of Heinz Fish & Chips sauce as Tartare 2.0 – 2025’s hot new upgrade… Love tartare? You’ll be obsessed. Never tried it? Consider this your tasty gateway to next-level fish & chips.” Heinz Fish & Chips Sauce has a recommended retail price of £3.39 and is available from Tesco. Heinz said its own research suggested that Britons were eating more fish – up almost 5% year on year – with 37% of these occasions being fish and chip meals. It found 81% of Britons used various sauces with the dish, with 66% using ketchup, 50% mayonnaise and 45% Tartare sauce. Some 90% of 18 to 34-year-olds expressed an interest in a “brand new” sauce for fish, the brand said. Thiago Rapp, director of ‘taste elevation’ at Heinz, said: “At Heinz, we’re always exploring bold and exciting flavours, inspired by the latest food trends and what people across the nation are really craving.

BBQ - Do you think this will become a star product for Heinz?

Fish & Chip Sauce

Nearly Half of All Toys Sold Under £15

 

The rising cost of living has significantly impacted consumer behavior, particularly in the toy market. Nearly half of the toys sold in the UK last year were priced under £15, as parents sought more affordable options for their children. This shift is a direct response to economic pressures, with families tightening their budgets and opting for lower-priced toys. Despite a 3.7% decline in overall toy sales, certain categories like collectibles and plush toys have remained popular due to their affordability and appeal. For instance, the Squishmallows plush range, typically priced below £9, retained its position as the top-selling item for the second year in a row. Additionally, toys costing less than £10 accounted for 28% of the market. The British Toy and Hobby Association noted that the unsettled economic landscape has shaped these spending patterns, with parents and even adult collectors, known as "kidults," driving demand for budget-friendly and collectible items. This trend illustrates how affordability has become a key factor in toy purchases, helping parents navigate financial constraints while still bringing joy to their children.

BBQ - How might the trend of parents purchasing lower-priced toys impact toy manufacturers' strategies in terms of product development, marketing, and pricing?

Toy Trends

Fart Blaster Tops Toy List

This holiday season, the “Fart Blaster” toy has captured the top spot on children’s Christmas wishlists, with experts forecasting record sales. Despite the economic challenges many families face, the toy market is poised for significant growth, driven by the high demand for this quirky and entertaining product. Retailers are optimistic about the upcoming holiday season, anticipating strong sales as parents prioritize spending on toys to bring joy to their children. According to the article, the toy industry is expected to see a 10% increase in sales compared to last year, highlighting the resilience of the market and the enduring appeal of fun, innovative products. As families gear up for the festive season, the “Fart Blaster” is set to be a standout hit, showcasing the power of playful and humorous toys in brightening up the holiday.

BBQ: How might the popularity of the “Fart Blaster” toy and the predicted record sales impact the toy industry’s market dynamics and retail strategies during the holiday season? 

Top Toys