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The rise of ‘insperiences’

Direct-to-door is becoming a consumer expectation

Direct-to-door (D2D) isn’t just a convenience – it’s a consumer expectation. The model has expanded far beyond takeaways into beauty, retail and lifestyle, redefining what it means to enjoy products at home.

The explosion of delivery platforms like Uber Eats, Deliveroo and Just Eat in the last decade, combined with the adoption of home delivery by almost all major high street retailers, has reshaped everything from restaurant models to consumer habits. Many brands are adapting, investing in ghost kitchens, at-home dining formats, and more bespoke D2D options.

Rewriting the rules of convenience

In the last decade, delivery has moved from reactive to routine, but consumer expectations have risen, with many expecting seamless service as standard.

  • 22% say they buy more products for home delivery now than before the pandemic
  • Takeaway spending grew sharply after June 2020, but growth slowed in 2024
  • 33% say they prioritise takeaway/D2D spending less than 10 years ago – suggesting more scrutiny and selectivity.

What this means for brands

Convenience is no longer a value-add – it’s a baseline. To win, brands must layer in quality, speed and sustainability.

  1. Deliver dependability – meet rising expectations for speed, tracking and packaging
  2. Innovate formats – explore new ways to surprise and engage at home
  3. Champion purpose – use D2D as a platform for sustainability or social values.

Online fitness classes, beauty services on demand and meal kits direct to the door, are just some of the trends we’ve seen take off that look set to stand the test of time. But while convenience remains king – consumers now also expect quality, sustainability and speed too.

Phil Richardson

Industry Director, Hospitality & Leisure, Barclays Corporate Banking

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