USA Today reported recently that buying a good, almost-home-cooked Thanksgiving meal is becoming more popular year after year. 2005 saw 5% of US households purchasing their pre-made or pre-prepped Thanksgiving meal from an assortment of sources, and market research suggests that this year it will top 6%.

The most popular sources for the Thanksgiving meal are upscale eateries, natural grocers, online food services, fast food, and of course, Easy Meal Assembly stores. More and more Easy Meal Prep businesses are providing a Thanksgiving menu this year, whether for regular assembly sessions, for pre-made pickup, or both. Customers are increasingly looking for a healthier, more organic and better-tasting "homemade" meal, but nobody has the time.

USA Today makes reference to the Google Generation - short on time but looking for tasty, healthy, nutritious food just like Grandma used to make.

Special seasonal items are more popular than ever this year in Easy Meal Prep stores, with Christmas cookies, Thanksgiving sides, New Years Eve appetizer platters and other holiday favourites getting top sales for many businesses and franchises.