A new survey of nearly 1,500 Irish men and women by Keogh's Farm has revealed that sunshine and crisp sandwiches are the must-haves for a good Irish picnic experience, with 91% calling good weather their perfect picnic essential while 89% citing a shareable bag of crisps an integral part of the an al fresco spread.
More than half of respondents (53%) said that going for a picnic was their favourite way to spend a sunny day, while 45% look forward to going on as many picnics as the weather allows this summer. With optimistic weather forecasts, this could see Irish parks and beaches filling up with baskets and blankets over the coming months.
Two-thirds of those surveyed also said that having the right company is what makes a great picnic experience. Just over half (52%)view a picnic as a chance to bring the family together, while a quarter would be more likely to go on a picnic with a partner or spouse.
When it comes to the ideal Irish celebrities to share a picnic blanket with, actress Amy Huberman and hubby Brian O'Driscoll topped the polls, with Amy named the most desired female companion by 36% and Brian beating out the male candidates with 17% of the vote.
With crisps being the most desired picnic ingredient, sandwiches came second with 86% as the snack most likely to go into baskets and coolers. The crisp sandwich was voted most popular favourite childhood sandwich by 36%, beating out classic filling like ham or egg.
Commenting on the results, Tom Keogh, Keogh’s Farm, said, “It’s great to see that so many Irish people still feel passionately about the humble picnic and that 95% plan to get out in the fresh air with their loved ones this summer.
"Our new Keogh’s Multipack is perfect for sharing and is designed to be easily carried to any picnic destination and whether it’s up a scenic mountain or in your own back garden, we have share-size and individual crisp bags to cater for any manner of picnic," he added.
The recently launched Keogh's Multipack includes 2 x Dubliner Cheese and Onion, 2 x Atlantic Sea Salt and Irish Cider Vinegar and 2 x Roast Beef and Irish Stout, with an RRP of €3.69.
© 2015 - Checkout Magazine by Jenny Whelan.