As international soccer competitions approach, Mexican consumers are preparing to increase spending on food, snacks and delivery services, creating opportunities for brands across the food and retail sectors. Soccer remains one of the strongest drivers of consumer spending in Mexico, influencing how people shop and socialize during major international tournaments.
According to the PayPal Soccer Fans Report, food and snacks will be the leading consumption category associated with the upcoming soccer season. Seven out of 10 Mexicans plan to spend on food and snacks, followed by food delivery services at 65%. By comparison, only 31% intend to purchase tickets to attend matches.
Among the most popular products are snacks and chips, cited by 58% of respondents, followed by pizza at 48% and tacos at 37%. While soccer fandom remains strong, relatively few consumers plan to travel for matches. Only 4% said they expect to attend games in their own city, another 4% plan domestic travel to watch a match and just 1% intend to travel internationally. The findings underscore the economic importance of at-home viewing and social gatherings, which continue to drive demand for convenience foods and shared consumption occasions.
According to market research firms including NielsenIQ and Kantar, salty snack categories frequently post double-digit growth during major international sports competitions as consumers seek convenience, indulgence and products associated with social gatherings.
Manufacturers are increasingly using soccer-themed marketing campaigns to strengthen consumer engagement. Limited-edition packaging, collectible promotions and digital activations have become common strategies for increasing shelf rotation and attracting younger audiences.
Flavor innovation is also gaining importance. Brands are developing products featuring stronger flavor profiles, spicy combinations and hybrid concepts that blend sweet, sour and savory elements. In Mexico, flavors featuring chili, lime, habanero, and smoky notes continue to gain traction, while global markets are increasingly embracing street food-inspired offerings.
One of the latest examples is Sabritas Mundialistas, a limited-edition potato chip line inspired by the tournament’s host countries: Mexico, the United States and Canada. The collection includes three flavors: Tacos al Pastor, American Brisket and Maple Syrup.
The launch combines smoky, savory and sweet flavor profiles while leveraging collectible packaging and soccer-themed promotions. Under the campaign slogan Sin Sabritas No Hay Partido, the brand is offering tournament-related prizes, including match tickets and official merchandise.
The products are already available in convenience stores, supermarkets, and retail outlets across Mexico. The launch reflects how snack manufacturers continue to use major sporting events to drive product innovation, strengthen consumer engagement and capitalize on increased demand for shared consumption occasions.
For brands operating in snacks, food delivery, and retail, the upcoming soccer season represents a significant commercial opportunity as consumers increase spending on products and experiences linked to home viewing, entertainment and social gatherings.
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