Marks & Spencer has declared Saturday, June 27, as National Picky Bits Day for the second year running, responding to surging demand for its savoury snack range. The retailer now sells a pack of picky bits every second, according to company data.
What's on Offer
Stores are stocked with an extensive selection of picnic staples including pork pies, sausage rolls, quiche, and mini sausages, alongside antipasti dishes such as olives, cheese, stuffed bell peppers, and sweet potato spiced falafels. Meat snack packs like serrano ham and cheese rollitos, chorizo and chilli flavour, and salchichon and rosemary with cheese are also available.
For families with fussy eaters, M&S offers dinky shareable popcorn chicken that cooks in just six minutes in an air fryer. Other quick-heat options include chorizo and cheese tortilla and Spanish-style prawn pil pil with garlic, chili, and paprika oil, both microwaveable.
The mini cheese and onion muffins proved the biggest hit in a household taste test, featuring sautéed onions, extra mature cheddar, and Red Leicester cheese. They can be eaten warm or cold but are preferred warm after five minutes in the air fryer.
Value and Promotions
Many products are included in the retailer's three for £8 offer, enhancing value. Customers can supplement with carrot sticks, crackers, or sweet treats like the new M&S strawberry sandwich and sweet dips launched this week.
Sales Growth and Consumer Research
M&S picky bits sales have grown 27% year-on-year, with the retailer forecasting its biggest ever summer for the category. According to new YouGov research, 44% of British shoppers named M&S as their top destination for summery nibbles, leading the retailer to brand itself the UK's home of picky bits.
"We know everyone loves M&S picky bits so decided to declare it as a national day because… why not?" a spokesman told us.
