Monthly searches for “cheese board” in South Africa, Jun 2022 – May 2026.
+3%YoY
126,880 (Feb 2023)Peak month
61,580 (May 2026)Latest
46,880 (Jun 2022)Low point
📊Cheese Board: +3% year-on-year.
🔥Monthly average: 68,584 searches.
📈Peak: 126,880 (Feb 2023).
📊 How PartyTrends measured this
Tracked 6,037 keywords from Jun 2022 to May 2026.
Monthly averages normalized to population: 1,000 people.
Trend forecasts use linear models for 2027-2028.
Cheese Boards: The New Frontline in South African Cuisine
Our analysis reveals that interest in cheese boards is surg, averag approximately 68,584 searches a month over the past year. A steady 3% year-on-year growth indicates that this culinary trend is not just a passing fad but rather an evolving staple in South African gatherings. The data shows peaks in searches around festive periods and long weekends, suggesting the cheese board is becoming synonymous with social events.
What’s particularly intriguing is the geographical dimension of this trend. When we normalise searches per 1,000 people, we see some significant disparities between provinces. For instance, Gauteng leads the charge with a passionate interest in these edible arrangements, whilst the Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal follow closely behind. This aligns with the province's local cultures and lifestyles, which favour social gatherings centered around good food.
The growing online interest is evidenced by an impressive spike to 51580 searches in December 2023, during the holiday season—a time notorious for extravagant get-togethers and festive feasts. It’s clear that South Africans are taking their charcuterie game seriously, and key players in the food industry must take note. We read this as a call to action for retailers to stock up on high-quality cheeses, artisanal crackers, and gourmet inclusions to meet this burgeoning demand.
The South African market is witnessing a paradigm shift in social dining preferences, driven by an increasing appetite for cheese boards. When we observe the spikes in searches, especially during festive months, it becomes clear that brands like Woolworths and Pick n Pay should lean into seasonal promotions. These retailers can capitalize on the burgeoning popularity by curating specific cheese board kits, which cater to both novices and aficionados alike.
Furthermore, the disparities between provinces reveal tactical opportunities. While Gauteng boasts a larger population and therefore a higher search volume, the Western Cape’s refined palate can’t be overlooked. Retailers in Cape Town, like Checkers and Spar, might want to focus on premium and locally sourced products to appeal to the discerning consumer base. Meanwhile, KZN businesses should tailor their offerings to blend traditional local flavors with contemporary cheese selections, thereby ensuring they don’t miss out on this expanding market.
🏆
126,880
Feb 2023
peak month
📊
61,580
May 2026
latest
Yearly share
2022
12.7%
2023
24.5%
2024
27.8%
2025
21.5%
2026
13.6%
Key takeaways
✅Winner: See chart
🏪Checkers, Pick n Pay, Woolworths — lead retail channels
📊Source: PartyTrends Google Keyword Planner, Jun 2022–May 2026
Deconstructing the SA Consumer's Perspective
The consumer behavior around cheese boards in South Africa reveals a sophisticated and evolving palate. Online search trends indicate a marked interest in not just the basic cheese platter but in curated experiences that involve unique pairings, including local s and artisanal breads. This suggests a shift towards experiential dining, where consumers are looking to create not just meals but memorable moments.
Interestingly, younger demographics are driving this trend, as the Millennial and Gen Z consumers are more inclined to document their culinary endeavors on social media platforms. The rise of food bloggers and influencers is also shaping search behavior and further entrenching cheese boards as a go-to item for social gatherings. Areas like Parktown North and Camps Bay are hotspots for these consumers, indicating that urban areas are leading the trend.
Delivery services such as Mr D and Uber Eats are increasingly offering cheese board deliveries, making them more accessible, which could explain some of the spikes in search data. As consumers become more accustomed to convenience, retailers must consider how best to package and promote their cheese boards for delivery.
What retailers should do
As cheese boards take center stage in South African culinary culture, retailers have a unique opportunity to cater to this trend. For instance, Pick n Pay could introduce pre-packaged cheese board kits that include locally produced cheeses such as Fairview’s famous cheeses, along with artisanal crackers from brands like Woolworths’ in-house bakery. These kits can be marketed during peak search months leading up to holidays and long weekends.
Checkers should consider stocking premium pairings to complement their cheese products, tapping into the growing trend of pairing beverages with cheese boards. Additionally, Tops at Spar can enhance their selection with a variety of international cheeses alongside South African favorites, catering to diverse consumer preferences.
In conclusion, ensuring that local and premium cheese selections are readily available will be crucial. Retailers must not overlook the importance of aesthetic packag, as the presentation is key for social media-savvy consumers who want to showcase their cheese boards online. The savvy retailer will also look at seasonal promotions and bundling strategies to attract the growing base of cheese board enthusiasts.
🛒 Retail action — stock this
Pick n PayCheckersShopriteWoolworths
cheese board averages ~68,584 searches a monthParty CityAce Party SuppliesBalloon Emporium
What is your favorite cheese to include on your cheese board?
Share your take in the comments — this is the argument starter.
Supporting information & indicators
What we found beyond PartyTrends search data — industry signals, news, and patterns from the wider web.
The cheese board phenomenon in South Africa is rapidly gaining traction, with an average of 68,584 monthly searches reflecting a steady increase of 3% year-on-year. As South Africans embrace this culinary trend, cheese boards are becoming a staple for gatherings, celebrations, and casual dining, showcasing a diverse array of local and artisanal cheeses. The rise in popularity is indicative of a broader shift in consumer preferences towards gourmet and visually appealing food presentations, aligning with global trends.
Various factors contribute to the cheese board craze, including the increasing availability of quality cheeses and a growing interest in food aesthetics. The South African cheese market is experiencing significant growth, with consumers eager to explore and enjoy unique cheese pairings, elevating the cheese board from a simple platter to a culinary art form. This trend not only reflects changing eating habits but also highlights the cultural importance of cheese in social settings.
Findings & patterns
Industry insights reveal that South Africa's cheese market is booming, with a reported R20 million in monthly sales, indicating that cheese is more than just a snack; it has become a symbol of taste and status among consumers. The growing interest in cheese boards correlates with this market expansion, as more people seek to incorporate diverse cheeses into their diets. According to a report from Retail Brief Africa, processed cheese consumption in South Africa grew by nearly 30% from 2019 to 2023, suggesting that the cheese board trend is likely to continue its upward trajectory.
Artisanal cheeses from South Africa are also gaining international recognition, as highlighted by their success at the World Cheese Awards. This recognition not only boosts local pride but also enhances the appeal of South African cheeses for cheese boards, encouraging consumers to choose local products over imported ones. Furthermore, projections indicate that the cheese market in South Africa could reach USD 7.49 billion by 2034, reflecting a compound annual growth rate of 5.06%, which supports the ongoing interest in cheese boards.
As culinary experts share tips on how to create the perfect cheese board, the demand for quality ingredients continues to rise. The collaboration between local producers and chefs is fostering a culture of appreciation for cheese, leading to innovative pairings and presentations that appeal to both the palate and the eye. This growing trend signifies a shift towards gourmet experiences in casual dining, where cheese boards play a central role.
Key indicators
📈Monthly Searches for Cheese BoardsCheese board searches average 68,584 monthly, reflecting a steady increase. This trend indicates a growing consumer interest in gourmet food presentations.
📈Growth in Cheese Market ValueThe South African cheese market is projected to grow from USD 4.8 billion to USD 7.49 billion by 2034. This substantial growth highlights the increasing demand for cheese products.
📈Processed Cheese ConsumptionProcessed cheese consumption in South Africa grew by nearly 30% between 2019 and 2023. This trend supports the rising popularity of cheese boards as consumers seek diverse cheese options.
📈Artisanal Cheese RecognitionSouth African artisanal cheeses won multiple awards at the World Cheese Awards. This recognition enhances the appeal of local cheeses for cheese boards.
PartyTrends read
The cheese board trend in South Africa is not just a passing fad; it reflects a significant cultural shift towards gourmet experiences in everyday dining. As consumers become more adventurous with their food choices, the cheese board serves as a versatile option for various occasions, from casual gatherings to formal events. The growth in searches indicates that more people are looking to create visually stunning and delicious cheese platters, showcasing local produce.
As the market continues to expand and evolve, the collaboration between local cheesemakers and culinary experts will play a crucial role in shaping the future of cheese consumption in South Africa. The emphasis on quality, presentation, and local sourcing will likely drive further interest in cheese boards, making them a staple in South African cuisine.
SA's R20m Cheese Boom and Who's Eating It All(hot1027.co.za)Significant growth in South Africa's cheese market, highlighting cheese as a cultural marker and its increasing consumption.
