North America and Europe Ready Meals Market Size was valued at USD 28,649.22 million in 2023. The Ready Meals industry is projected to grow USD 29,890.22 Million in 2024 to USD 42,650.48 million by 2032, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.54% during the forecast period (2024 - 2032).
The convenience and busy lifestyles of consumers represent a significant driver in the North America and Europe ready meals industry. In today's fast-paced world, people often find themselves pressed for time, juggling multiple responsibilities such as work, family, and social commitments. As urbanization accelerates, more people migrate from rural to urban areas in search of better employment opportunities, improved living standards, and access to various amenities. In urban settings, individuals and families often lead fast-paced lifestyles characterized by long working hours, commuting times, and busy schedules. These factors contribute to a shift in dietary habits, with consumers increasingly opting for convenient food options that require minimal preparation time. Furthermore, the rise of single-person households and smaller family sizes contributes to the demand for ready meals. In urban environments, where living spaces may be limited and cooking for one or two individuals can be impractical, ready meals offer a convenient solution for satisfying hunger without excessive waste or effort.
Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review
As urbanization accelerates, more people migrate from rural to urban areas in search of better employment opportunities, improved living standards, and access to various amenities. In urban settings, individuals and families often lead fast-paced lifestyles characterized by long working hours, commuting times, and busy schedules. These factors contribute to a shift in dietary habits, with consumers increasingly opting for convenient food options that require minimal preparation time.
The growing working population, particularly in metropolitan areas, plays a pivotal role in driving the demand for ready meals. With both partners in many households pursuing careers, there is less time available for meal planning, grocery shopping, and cooking elaborate dishes. As a result, consumers seek convenient meal solutions that offer a balance between nutrition, taste, and convenience.
Ready meals cater to the needs of busy urban dwellers by offering pre-packaged, easy-to-prepare food options that can be quickly heated and consumed. These meals encompass a wide range of products, including frozen dinners, microwaveable entrees, refrigerated meals, and shelf-stable options. They often feature diverse cuisines, flavors, and dietary preferences to appeal to a broad consumer base.
Furthermore, the rise of single-person households and smaller family sizes contributes to the demand for ready meals. In urban environments, where living spaces may be limited and cooking for one or two individuals can be impractical, ready meals offer a convenient solution for satisfying hunger without excessive waste or effort.
The convenience factor associated with ready meals resonates with consumers across different demographics, including young professionals, students, dual-income families, and seniors. These consumers prioritize convenience, affordability, and time-saving benefits when making food choices, making ready meals an attractive option for meeting their dietary needs.
The North America and Europe Ready Meals market segmentation, based on source, includes legumes and grain. The grain segment accounted for the largest market share of 83.09% in 2022 and is likely to register a CAGR of 4.29% during the projected period. Grains are another essential component of ready meals, providing carbohydrates, fiber, and essential nutrients. Oats are a popular grain choice known for their high fiber content and cholesterol-lowering properties. They are commonly used in breakfast items like oatmeal, granola bars, and breakfast cookies. Wheat, in various forms such as flour, pasta, and bread, is a staple in many cuisines worldwide and serves as a base for numerous ready-to-eat meals. Corn, both fresh and processed into products like tortillas, cornmeal, and popcorn, adds sweetness and texture to a wide range of dishes. Rice, a staple food for billions of people globally, is a versatile ingredient used in pilafs, stir-fries, sushi, and risotto.
Figure 1: North America and Europe Ready Meals Market, by Source, 2022 & 2032 (USD Million)
Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review
The North America and Europe Ready Meals market segmentation, based on category, includes ready-to-eat and ready-to-cook. The ready-to-eat segment accounted for the largest market share of 64.11% in 2022. Ready to Eat (RTE) meals are pre-cooked, packaged meals that require minimal to no preparation before consumption. These meals are designed to offer convenience and time-saving benefits to consumers with busy lifestyles or those looking for quick meal solutions. RTE meals typically include a wide range of options, including frozen dinners, canned soups, microwaveable meals, and pre-packaged salads.
One of the key advantages of RTE meals is their convenience. Consumers can simply heat and eat these meals without the need for extensive cooking or meal preparation. This convenience factor makes RTE meals popular among busy professionals, students, and individuals with limited cooking skills or time constraints. Additionally, RTE meals often come in single-serving portions, making them suitable for individuals or small households.
In terms of variety, RTE meals offer a diverse range of options to cater to different dietary preferences and culinary tastes. From traditional comfort foods to global cuisines, RTE meals encompass a wide array of flavors and ingredients to satisfy diverse consumer preferences. Moreover, advancements in food processing and packaging technologies have enabled RTE meals to maintain their freshness, flavor, and nutritional value over extended periods, further enhancing their appeal to consumers.
Figure 1: North America and Europe Ready Meals Market, by Category, 2022 & 2032 (USD Million)
Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database, and Analyst Review
The North America and Europe Ready Meals market segmentation, based on Nature, includes organic and conventional. The conventional segment held the majority share in 2022 concerning the North America and Europe Ready Meals industry revenue. Conventional ready meals, on the other hand, represent a broader segment of the market that encompasses a wide range of convenient meal options. Unlike organic ready meals, conventional ready meals contain ingredients produced using conventional agricultural practices, including the use of synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, and GMOs. While these products offer convenience and affordability, they may not always align with consumer preferences for natural, organic, or sustainably sourced ingredients.
The production of conventional ready meals often involves the use of processed ingredients, preservatives, and additives to enhance flavor, texture, and shelf life. These products cater to consumers seeking convenient meal solutions that require minimal preparation time and effort. Conventional ready meals encompass a diverse range of cuisines, flavors, and meal types, including frozen dinners, microwaveable meals, and shelf-stable products.
Figure 1: North America and Europe Ready Meals Market, by Nature, 2022 & 2032 (USD Million)
Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review
The North America and Europe Ready Meals market segmentation, based on end users, includes residential and commercial. The residential segment accounted for a higher market share in 2022 and is expected to witness the highest CAGR. The residential segment encompasses households and individuals who purchase ready meals for consumption within their homes. This segment has witnessed significant growth in recent years owing to changing lifestyles, busy schedules, and an increasing number of dual-income households. Ready meals offer convenience, time-saving benefits, and a wide variety of options for consumers who do not have the time or inclination to prepare meals from scratch. In North America and Europe, where the pace of life is often fast and time is at a premium, the residential segment represents a substantial portion of the ready meals market. Consumers in this segment seek diverse cuisines, dietary options, and convenient packaging that aligns with their preferences and dietary restrictions. Moreover, with the rise of online grocery shopping and meal delivery services, accessing ready meals has become more convenient, further fueling the growth of the residential segment.
Figure 2: North America and Europe Ready Meals Market, by End User, 2022 & 2032 (USD Million)
Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review
The North America and Europe Ready Meals market segmentation, based on pricing, includes economy/mass and premium. The economy/mass segment accounted for a higher market share in 2022 and is expected to witness the highest CAGR. The Economy/Mass segment of the ready meals market comprises products that are priced affordably and cater to a broad consumer base seeking convenience without substantial expenditure. These meals are typically manufactured using cost-effective ingredients and production methods, allowing companies to offer them at competitive prices. Economy/Mass ready meals often target budget-conscious consumers, students, and individuals looking for quick and convenient meal options without compromising taste or nutritional value. These products are widely available in supermarkets, grocery stores, and discount retailers, making them accessible to a wide demographic. In terms of variety, Economy/Mass ready meals encompass traditional comfort foods, such as frozen pizzas, microwaveable pasta dishes, and pre-packaged sandwiches.
By Region, the study segments the market into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, South America, and the Middle East & Africa. North America Ready Meals market accounts for the largest market share 52.97% in 2022 and is expected to exhibit a 4.32% CAGR due to the fast-paced lifestyle of consumers. Additionally, the rise in dual-income households and the growing number of single-person households have further contributed to the popularity of ready meals, as they offer portion-controlled servings and eliminate the need for extensive cooking and clean-up. Europe accounts for the second largest market share because of a growing inclination towards plant-based diets, driving the demand for legume and grain-based ready meals. As a key player in the North America and Europe Ready Meals industry, North America has witnessed a surge in the production and consumption of Ready Meals. Further, US Ready Meals market held the largest market share, and the Canada Ready Meals market was the fastest-growing market in the North America region.
Further, the major countries studied are The U.S., Canada, Germany, France, UK, and Italy.
Figure 3: NORTH AMERICA AND EUROPE READY MEALS MARKET SHARE BY REGION 2022 (%)
Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review
The North American ready meals market has witnessed significant growth and transformation in recent years, fuelled by changing consumer lifestyles, urbanization, and the increasing demand for convenient food options. Ready meals, which encompass a wide range of pre-packaged, easily prepared food items, have become a staple in many households across the region. This market encompasses various segments, including frozen meals, refrigerated meals, shelf-stable meals, and others, catering to diverse consumer preferences and dietary requirements. One of the key drivers of the ready meals market in North America is the fast-paced lifestyle of consumers. With hectic work schedules and limited time for meal preparation, many individuals and families opt for ready meals as a convenient and time-saving solution. Additionally, the rise in dual-income households and the growing number of single-person households have further contributed to the popularity of ready meals, as they offer portion-controlled servings and eliminate the need for extensive cooking and clean-up. Another significant factor driving the growth of the North American ready meals market is the increasing emphasis on health and wellness. As consumers become more health-conscious and seek nutritious food options, manufacturers have responded by offering a variety of ready meals that cater to specific dietary needs, including gluten-free, organic, low-sodium, and plant-based options. This focus on health and wellness has expanded the appeal of ready meals beyond convenience, making them a viable choice for consumers looking to maintain a balanced diet without sacrificing taste or quality. The North America Ready Meals market comprised of the US and Canada, among which the US emerged as the frontrunner with a market share of 88.00% in 2022.
The Europe Ready Meals market is expected to grow at the highest CAGR of 4.74% from 2022 to 2032. The European Ready Meals market is dynamic and changing quickly, driven by unique trends, drivers, and a lot of possibilities. In Germany, known for its focus on health and sustainability, there is a growing inclination towards plant-based diets, driving the demand for legume and grain-based ready meals. German consumers prioritize organic and locally sourced ingredients, leading to the emergence of niche brands offering innovative options in the segment. Moreover, convenience remains a key driver in Germany's urban centers, where time-pressed consumers seek nutritious yet convenient meal solutions.
In the United Kingdom, the ready meals market reflects a similar trend towards healthier and more sustainable options. With a significant rise in vegetarianism and veganism, legumes and grain-based ready meals have gained popularity among British consumers. Major retailers and food manufacturers have responded by expanding their product lines to include plant-based options that cater to diverse dietary preferences. Additionally, there is a growing emphasis on ethnic cuisines, with legume and grain-based dishes from around the world becoming increasingly accessible in the UK's ready meals market.
The US, Canada, and Europe ready meals market is characterized by the presence of many global, regional, and local vendors. The market is highly competitive, with all the players competing to gain maximum market share. Intense competition, and frequent changes in government policies, and regulations are key factors that impact market growth. The market is very competitive, and all players are competing to win the biggest market share. Fierce competition and frequent changes in government policies and regulations are the major factors affecting market growth. Suppliers compete based on price, product quality, reliability, and aftermarket services. Vendors must offer cost-effective and high-quality convenience foods to maintain their presence in a highly competitive environment. As mentioned above, major players dominate the market due to their advanced product portfolio, vast industry experience, and geographical coverage. These players may establish their presence globally through strategic partnerships and acquisitions during the forecast period. Players with better technologies at their disposal can develop unique and innovative products that can make competitors' offerings obsolete. The competitive environment in the market is becoming even tighter with the development of technology.
Ready Meals Industry Developments
In 2024, Stouffer’s introduced the "Fit Kitchen" line, featuring high-protein, low-calorie meals designed for health-conscious consumers. Flavors include "Chicken Teriyaki" and "Beef Stroganoff."
In 2024, Healthy Choice expanded their Power Bowls range with new varieties such as "Spicy Chicken & Rice" and "Mediterranean Falafel." These meals focus on balanced nutrition and flavor.
February 2024: General Mills, Inc. has launched more flavors to three of its ready-to-eat cereal brands with the launch of Loaded. The new line features “puffed-up larger-than-life squares” of General Mills’ Cinnamon Toast Crunch, Trix, and Cocoa Puffs cereals filled with vanilla crème.
June 2022: Conagra Brands (Birds Eye) has launched an extensive summer line-up of new product innovations. It has brought frozen vegetables with flavorful sides appetizers and meal starters including quick roasters with Cauliflower & Broccoli.
| Report Attribute/Metric | Details |
| Market Size 2024 | USD 29,890.22 million |
| Market Size 2032 | USD 42,650.48 million |
| Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) | 4.54% (2024-2032) |
| Base Year | 2023 |
| Forecast Period | 2024-2032 |
| Historical Data | 2019 & 2021 |
| Forecast Units | Value (USD Million) |
| Report Coverage | Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends |
| Segments Covered | Source, Category, Nature, End-User, Pricing, Distribution Channel, Form and Region. |
| Geographies Covered | North America and Europe |
| Countries Covered | The U.S, Canada, Germany, France, UK, Italy |
| Key Companies Profiled | General Mills Inc. (United States), Nestle S.A (Switzerland), Conagra Brands, Inc. (United States), Quaker Oats Company (United States), Iceland Foods Ltd. (UK), Archer-Daniels-Midland Company (United States), Kellanova (United States), Cirio UK (UK), Seneca Foods Corporation (United States), Del Monte Foods Inc. (United States), and among others |
| Key Market Opportunities | Innovation In Flavors, Ingredients, And Cuisines Attracting Diverse Consumers Emphasis On Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Packaging Influencing Consumer Choices |
| Key Market Dynamics | Convenience And Busy Lifestyles Increasing Urbanization and Working Population |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) :
The Ready Meals market accounted for USD 28,649.79 million.
The rise of single-person households and dual-income families has further fueled the demand for ready meals and the growing working population.
The growth rate of the Ready Meals market is 4.54% CAGR.
The North America region held the largest market share in the Ready Meals market.
General Mills Inc. (United States), Nestle S.A (Switzerland), Conagra Brands, Inc. (United States), Quaker Oats Company (United States), Iceland Foods Ltd. (UK), Archer-Daniels-Midland Company (United States), Kellanova (United States), Cirio UK (UK), Seneca Foods Corporation (United States), Del Monte Foods Inc. (United States), among others are the key players in the Ready Meals market.
The growing demand for healthier alternatives has led both regions to develop their organic and plant-based ready meal selections, with Europe mostly ahead in terms of variety and availability.
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Research Analyst Level II I have a degree in engineering (civil), with masters in business administration (marketing). with more than 4 years of experience in market research and consulting, i am involved in end-to-end process of market research, proposals, project kickoffs and delivery. i have research knowledge and expertise in consumer goods/packaging domain. also i have worked for various other domains like construction & equipment. effectively managed and delivered more than 60 report studies for regional as well as global clientele.
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