Turkey, Ranch & a Side of Brexit: How Thanksgiving is Becoming a British Economic Force
London – November 1, 2025 – Forget pumpkin spice lattes being a fleeting trend. Thanksgiving is no longer just for Americans in London; it’s rapidly becoming a significant economic event for the UK, injecting millions into retail, hospitality, and even impacting agricultural supply chains. Initial estimates suggest the 2025 Thanksgiving spend in the UK will exceed £600 million – a figure that’s more than double what it was just three years ago. But this isn’t simply about expats craving a taste of home; it’s a complex interplay of cultural adoption, generational shifts, and surprisingly, even geopolitical factors.
From Niche to National: The Scale of the Shift
The numbers are staggerin…
Turkey, Ranch & a Side of Brexit: How Thanksgiving is Becoming a British Economic Force
London – November 1, 2025 – Forget pumpkin spice lattes being a fleeting trend. Thanksgiving is no longer just for Americans in London; it’s rapidly becoming a significant economic event for the UK, injecting millions into retail, hospitality, and even impacting agricultural supply chains. Initial estimates suggest the 2025 Thanksgiving spend in the UK will exceed £600 million – a figure that’s more than double what it was just three years ago. But this isn’t simply about expats craving a taste of home; it’s a complex interplay of cultural adoption, generational shifts, and surprisingly, even geopolitical factors.
From Niche to National: The Scale of the Shift
The numbers are staggering. Ocado’s reported 550%+ surge in “pumpkin spice” searches isn’t just a quirky statistic. It’s indicative of a broader embrace of American flavours. But the real money is in the main event. Pipers Farm’s 38% jump in turkey sales last year is projected to be closer to 50% this year, forcing them to significantly expand production. This isn’t just about bigger birds; it’s about a complete ecosystem of supporting products. Herr’s Buffalo Blue Cheese Curls and Newman’s Own Ranch Dressing – previously niche imports – are now flying off shelves, demonstrating a willingness to experiment with distinctly American tastes.
“We’re seeing a complete re-evaluation of the November retail calendar,” explains retail analyst, Eleanor Vance at GlobalData. “Traditionally, it’s a quiet period between Halloween and the Christmas rush. Now, retailers are actively building Thanksgiving promotions, and it’s proving incredibly effective.”
The Gen Z Factor & Experiential Eating
While the initial wave of Thanksgiving enthusiasm came from American expats, the driving force now is younger generations. Mintel’s research showing 67% of Gen Z are interested in Southern US cuisine is a key indicator. This isn’t about replicating an American Thanksgiving exactly; it’s about experiential eating.
“Younger consumers aren’t just looking for a meal; they’re looking for an event,” says Dan Elton, Chief Customer Officer at Ocado Retail. “Thanksgiving offers a themed experience, a chance to connect with friends and family, and a break from the usual routine. It’s Instagrammable, shareable, and frankly, a bit of fun.”
This demand is fueling innovation. Restaurants are offering Thanksgiving-themed bottomless brunches, and retailers are creating pre-packaged “Thanksgiving in a Box” kits, catering to busy lifestyles.
Brexit, US Citizenship & the Expat Boom
The rise of Thanksgiving isn’t solely driven by cultural trends. A less-discussed factor is the increase in American expats in the UK, partially fueled by political uncertainty in the US. Applications for British citizenship from US citizens surged 26% last year, with a 40% jump in the final quarter of 2024.
“We’re seeing a significant influx of Americans relocating to the UK, and they’re bringing their traditions with them,” notes immigration lawyer, Sarah Chen. “While not the sole driver, it’s a contributing factor to the increased demand for Thanksgiving-related products and services.”
This demographic shift is particularly noticeable in London, where restaurants like CUT at 45 Park Lane have doubled Thanksgiving bookings year-on-year, catering to both American residents and curious locals.
Beyond the Turkey: Supply Chain & Local Sourcing
The economic impact extends beyond retail and hospitality. UK farmers are adapting to meet the growing demand for Thanksgiving staples. While some consumers still prefer American-bred turkeys, there’s a growing trend towards locally-sourced options.
“We’re seeing farmers actively marketing ‘British Thanksgiving turkeys’,” says agricultural economist, James Riley. “It’s a smart move, tapping into the demand while also promoting local produce. Cranberries, traditionally imported, are also seeing increased domestic production, albeit on a smaller scale.”
This shift towards local sourcing isn’t just about patriotism; it’s about supply chain resilience. Brexit-related import challenges have highlighted the importance of strengthening domestic food production.
The Future is Festive: Will Thanksgiving Become a British Tradition?
The evidence suggests Thanksgiving isn’t a flash in the pan. It’s a cultural phenomenon with genuine economic weight. While it’s unlikely to replace traditional British holidays, it’s carving out a significant niche on the UK calendar.
Retailers are already planning for 2026, with some exploring the possibility of offering uniquely British Thanksgiving additions – think Yorkshire pudding stuffing or cranberry sauce with a hint of gin. The future of Thanksgiving in the UK is likely to be a fascinating blend of American tradition and British innovation, a testament to the power of cultural exchange and the enduring appeal of a good feast.