The Institute of Grocery Distribution (IGD) has announced an insight programme aiming to help food industry businesses understand, navigate and capitalise on the impacts of weight loss medication use.
The programme, which is called ‘IGD Futures: GLP-1’, is reportedly designed to provide a total consumption view of current and future changes in consumer and shopper behaviours, household dynamics and category demand. It also brings together insights on wider GLP-1 impacts, such as global trends and the evolving science and regulations.
IGD research suggested that weight loss medication usage is “rising fast”, with uptake among UK adults growing from 3.1% in June 2025 to 4.2% in October, which it said was more than the number following a vegan diet. IGD also found that 35% of GLP-1 users were eating out less often, 69% were eating fewer snacks, and 48% were eating fewer meals overall.
The programme uses a mixed methodology approach, incorporating longitudinal diary tracking of GLP-1 users, qualitative research into behaviours and sentiments, social listening in the UK and US, and global horizon scanning of industry responses and innovation.
Tom Wakeman, insight director at IGD, commented: “Consistently, the industry tells us they need to understand who is changing, how they are changing, and where the opportunities are.
“We have structured this programme to help businesses turn behaviour change into commercial advantage. Our unique holistic approach reveals what is shifting, why it is shifting, and what actions will unlock value. Powered by deep insight and reliable foresight, this programme projects the scale of impact so businesses can stay ahead.”
Food businesses to receive market insights
The ‘IGD Futures: GLP-1’ programme promises a “year-round flow of GLP-1 intelligence”, including:
- A detailed picture of GLP-1 usage, user profiles, and how spend is shifting both in-home and out-of-home into broader lifestyle categories
- A holistic view across consideration, active use, tapering, and long-term lifestyle change beyond current users
- Future scenarios of global adoption patterns and shifts
- Insight into strategic implications and next steps.
Food businesses can register their interest and find out more by emailing askIGD@igd.com.
