Chinese takeaways and groceries drive December surge on Just Eat

Just Eat recorded more than 17 million orders in December as customers turned to takeaway meals and on-demand groceries during the Christmas and New Year period.

Chinese food drove much of the increase, with orders more than doubling on both Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve. It was also the most searched-for cuisine on the platform during the month, attracting more than 350,000 searches.

Demand spiked further on Christmas Day, when more than 145,000 orders were placed. Grocery deliveries accounted for about 40% of those orders, as customers used the service to replace forgotten ingredients and missing items.

Search data showed a rise in last-minute food shopping in the days before Christmas. Searches for turkey peaked on 23 and 24 December, while more than 13,000 packs of pigs in blankets were ordered across the month.

Activity remained high into New Year’s Eve, with more than 4,500 orders placed in the final hour before midnight. Orders for prosecco and champagne rose by 300% as customers prepared to celebrate the new year.

The pattern shifted on New Year’s Day, when customers moved towards drinks associated with recovery and hydration. Orders for coconut water and sports drinks rose by 132%, with more than 3,000 orders placed.

Leigh Phillipson, commercial director at Just Eat UK, said: “December was a period when routines shift and convenience really comes into its own. We see customers leaning into familiar comfort foods and last-minute treats as they celebrate with friends and family.

“However, it was clear to see that customers quickly pivoted to recovery and healthier choices on 1 January, aiming to get off on the right foot and take part in health-led trends that we’ll see continue to gain momentum in 2026.”