When you think of France, your mind likely drifts to croissants, escargot, and a perfectly aged Bordeaux. But what about a steaming plate of fish and chips or a comforting spoonful of custard? At The Trading Post, we’re passionate about bringing British and international foods to France—and there’s a rich history behind why these flavours have found a home here. Let’s take a tasty trip through time to explore the history of British food imports in France.
The Early Days: A Tale of Trade and Taste
The story begins centuries ago when Britain and France, despite their famous rivalry, were busy trading goods across the Channel. While wine and cheese flowed north, Britain sent hearty staples south—think salted fish and wool, though not exactly the fish fingers we know today! By the 18th century, British ports like Dover were swapping goods with Calais, laying the groundwork for a culinary exchange that would evolve over time.
Fun fact: tea, now a British icon, started trickling into France from British traders in the 1700s. While the French stuck to their café au lait, a small but growing taste for British habits was brewing.
Post-War Nostalgia: The Rise of the Expat Craving
Fast forward to the 20th century—World War II changed everything. British soldiers stationed in France during the wars introduced locals to their rations, including tinned meats and biscuits. After the war, as Britain rebuilt, a wave of British expats settled in France, especially in regions like Normandy and the Dordogne. With them came a longing for home comforts: Marmite, baked beans, and proper cheddar.
By the 1950s and ‘60s, small British food shops popped up in Paris and beyond, catering to this growing expat community. These early imports weren’t widespread—imagine a clandestine jar of HP Sauce swapped between neighbours—but they sparked a niche demand for British foods in France that’s only grown since.
The Pub Boom: British Culture Hits French Soil
The 1980s and ‘90s saw a surge in British influence with the rise of Anglo-inspired pubs across France. Cities like Paris and Lyon embraced the charm of a pint and a ploughman’s lunch. Pub owners began importing British staples—think digestive biscuits, pickled onions, and even black pudding—to recreate that authentic UK vibe. Suddenly, British food imports in France weren’t just for expats; curious French locals wanted a taste, too.
At The Trading Post, we see echoes of this era in our customers’ love for classics like Highland Shortbread or Branston Pickle—items that bridge nostalgia and discovery.
Today: A Modern Melting Pot
In 2025, the appetite for British foods in France is stronger than ever. The internet has made it easier to satisfy cravings, and expat communities—now numbering over 150,000 Brits in France—and many people rely on websites like ours to deliver their favourites. Meanwhile, French foodies are embracing international flavours, from a sneaky spoonful of custard on their tarte tatin to a full English breakfast on a lazy Sunday.
Data backs this up: imports of UK food and drink to the EU rose by 5% in 2024 alone (source: UK Trade Office), with France as a top destination. Whether it’s the comfort of Heinz Beanz or the quirky allure of Marmite, British imports are carving out a permanent spot in French kitchens.
Why It Matters to Us
At The Trading Post, we’re proud to continue this legacy. Our mission is simple: bring the best of British and international foods to your doorstep in France. From the post-war expat pioneers to today’s global food lovers, the history of British food imports in France is a story of connection, comfort, and a little culinary courage.
So, next time you pop open a jar of Colman’s Mustard or brew a cup of PG Tips, you’re not just tasting Britain—you’re savouring a shared history.
What’s your favourite British food memory in France? Drop a comment below—we’d love to hear your story! And if you’re craving a taste of home, explore our full range at The Trading Post.
