Food Halls of Europe

FOOD HALLS OF EUROPE

CUSHMAN & WAKEFIELD

EMBRACING THE RISE OF EUROPEAN FOOD HALLS

A Taste of Authenticity and Social Connection

In today’s rapidly evolving consumer landscape, where access to a wide array of products and services is readily available, the need for convenience and variety has become paramount. Food halls are increasingly diversifying their offerings and have emerged as a perfect fit for the modern consumer. They have evolved into social hubs, fostering an environment that encourages socialising and meaningful connections. This shift towards a more social-centric approach has resulted in an increased interest in food halls as a destination for leisure and gathering, rather than solely focusing on eating, though food remains the centre of attention. Food halls offer a blend of choice and efficiency, distinct to the more rigid structure of traditional restaurants. Whether it’s enjoying a meal, a refreshing drink or engaging in conversation, food halls provide a flexible and versatile space that accommodates a variety of preferences, giving individuals the freedom to curate their own experience.

In Cushman & Wakefield’s 2017 Food Halls of Europe report, food halls were rapidly gaining popularity. Appealing to tourists, locals and office workers alike, it was noted how customers were seeking unique experiences, particularly driven by the younger, travel savvy generation. Quality, authenticity and variety were paramount, with communal dining experiences adding to their allure. The report anticipated continued growth, with food halls increasingly repurposing buildings and integrating into wider developments. Fast forward to today and these trends remain true – even withstanding a pandemic. COVID-19 underscored the importance of flexible social spaces, with consumers craving memorable experiences after prolonged periods of isolation. Food halls, with their community-centric model, have excelled in meeting this demand. Whilst lockdowns and unforeseen cost increases have meant that some food halls have had to make the tough decision to close their doors, the overall trend has been one of adaptability and growth.

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