Almost 100 new products will be hitting shelves including Brie and Cranberry Kyivs, a Pigs in Blanket Stuffed Chicken Crown, and On-the-Bone Cherry Glazed Ham Joint.
Pilgrim’s Europe said it expects continued strong demand this year across flavour-led sausages, slow-cook joints and a wider mix of pack and joint sizes to suit varying household budgets.
It believes that shoppers will continue to prioritise at-home hosting, ‘picky teas’ and informal family gatherings.
The company highlights Worldpanel data showing that premium own-label remains a key growth driver, with premium meat, fish and poultry spend rising 15.7% year on year and expected to surpass £100 million this Christmas.
It added that earlier festive planning continues to push volume into the early December trading window.
At the same time, its own research has shown that promotional activity in early December 2024 proved decisive for retailers, and Pilgrim’s Europe predicts a similar pattern in 2025 with Monday 22 December forecast to be the biggest trading day in the final week, heightening the need for strong availability and execution ahead of the last big shop.
New launches from the food producer and its retail partners include festive flavour pairings and fuss-free cooking methods including: Roast in the Bag Pigs in Blankets, Orange & Brown Sugar Ham Joint, and a Festive Spice Gammon with Maple & Mustard Glaze.
Jason Winstanley, head of research and insight at Pilgrim’s Europe, said: “Evolving traditions and careful household budgeting continue to inspire our festive product range for 2025. Great-tasting, versatile products are the focus this year – from pigs in blankets and premium own-label sausages to flavour-led slow-cook joints – right to the centre of Christmas tables.
“Shoppers still want to treat themselves, but they want products they can rely on: slow-cooker mains, air-fryer-ready party food, and dishes that work just as well for weeknight grazing as they do for the big day itself.
“Our dedicated teams have been working hard to ensure our retail partners are fully stocked for the key early-December period and the important final shop.”
