IGD (Institute of Grocery Distribution) has announced a new insight programme called, ‘IGD Futures: GLP‑1’, to help food industry businesses understand, navigate, and capitalise on the impacts of weight loss medication use.

IGD research shows 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 – that’s more than the number following a vegan diet. IGD has also captured the effects, with 35% of GLP-1 users eating out less often, 69% eating fewer snacks, and 48% eating fewer meals overall.

‘IGD Futures: GLP‑1’ is 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.

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.

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.

To register interest and find out more about the IGD Futures: GLP‑1 programme, email: [email protected].

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_{IGD brings together stakeholders from across the food system, fostering action across on critical challenges across a broad cross section of forums. Through evidence-based insights, credible research, and thought leadership, IGD guides businesses to make informed decisions that not only benefit their operations but also contribute to the collective good of society.  As a charity with a long-standing commitment to the food and grocery industry, IGD does not advocate for any single commercial interest but works towards fostering alignment on shared goals that can have a positive, lasting impact on both the industry and the communities it serves. Its neutrality and impartiality are key to its role in facilitating collaboration, whether through policy development or addressing emerging risks and opportunities. By staying connected to the changing dynamics of the world, IGD ensures that the food system remains robust and sustainable, creating tangible benefits for businesses, consumers and society.}