UK Chips and Crisps Market, by Type

Growth Outlook

• The UK Chips and Crisps Market, by Type market is on a steady long-term growth path. Segment value stands at roughly USD 22 Mn in 2026 and is projected to reach USD 26 Mn by 2030 — a gain of about 21% over the forecast period, translating to a CAGR in the mid-single digits.
• What the regional split looks like (2026): Potato Chips leads, holding roughly 36% of segment value — the single largest regional share. Vegetables Chips is the second-largest contributor. Tortilla Chips, Meat Chips, Mutigrain Chips and Others make up the remainder, in descending order.
• By 2030, Potato Chips alone is expected to reach USD 10 Mn, with Vegetables Chips at USD 7 Mn.

Market Dynamics

The United Kingdom has long been a nation of potato lovers, with chips (or fries, as they are known in the US) being a staple in British diets for decades. In fact, the love for chips has even extended to the popular snack of crisps, which are thinly sliced and fried potatoes. The demand for both chips and crisps in the UK market is always seemingly insatiable, as it is a well-loved snack and accompaniment to meals.

The UK chips and crisps market can be divided into three main types - potato chips, vegetable chips, and tortilla chips. Each type has its own unique characteristics and appeal to different consumer preferences. Potato chips, also known as crisps in the UK, are the most popular and traditional type, with a wide variety of flavors and brands available in the market. Vegetable chips, made from different types of vegetables such as carrots, beetroots, and parsnips, have gained popularity in recent years due to their perceived health benefits and availability in different flavors. Tortilla chips, usually made from corn or wheat, are often associated with Mexican cuisine and have gained a strong following in the UK as a snack or as a base for nachos.

The demand for chips and crisps in the UK market is driven by several factors. Firstly, the convenience and portability of these snacks make them a popular choice for on-the-go consumption. With increasingly busy lifestyles and a growing demand for convenient and quick meals, chips and crisps have become a go-to snack for many consumers. Additionally, the wide range of flavors available for both chips and crisps caters to a diverse consumer base and caters to different taste preferences.

In recent years, the demand for healthier snacking options has also affected the chips and crisps market in the UK. As a result, many brands have started offering lower-calorie alternatives and healthier versions of their products, appealing to health-conscious consumers. There has also been a rise in demand for vegan and gluten-free options in the chips and crisps market, leading to an increase in product offerings to cater to these dietary restrictions.

In summary, the demand for chips and crisps in the UK market remains strong and continues to grow, driven by the convenience, variety of flavors, and changing consumer preferences for healthier options. With new product innovations and the rise of new consumption trends, the chips and crisps market in the UK is expected to remain a key player in the snack industry.