M&S is the brand most UK drivers would like to see at a motorway service area (MSA).
According to a new survey of 1,600 drivers by webuyanycar, 52% of people said they wanted to see M&S on the MSA sign, with Greggs in second place with 43%. McDonald’s was favourite for 38% of drivers while just 23% were attracted by the KFC logo.
The online car company said its Dream Service Station report found that UK drivers spend an average of just 16.5 minutes at service stations, prioritising speed and efficiency. And they also prioritise toilets over petrol pumps, with 70% of drivers saying the reason they stopped was to use bathroom facilities, compared to just 53% for fuel. And nearly half (47%) stop specifically for food and drinks.
According to the survey, 43% of people stop at a MSA to get a drink, with Costa the most popular coffee shop preference.
And while some MSAs feature sit-down restaurants like Nando’s and Pizza Express, only 7% of people claim to stop at a services area for a sit-down meal.
Richard Evans, head of technical services at webuyanycar, says: “Our findings show how having a swift and hassle-free journey is the top priority for road users that are stopping on motorways. When it comes to a service station, what people really want is decent food and drink options, as well as the essentials like bathrooms and fuel options, including electric chargers. People may like to have the variety, but ultimately people will tend to stick with what they know.”
