Sales of restaurant-branded ‘fakeaways’ have rocketed at Ocado as shoppers look to treat themselves on a budget.

According to the online grocer, products such as Franco Manca pizzas, Gourmet Burger Kitchen burgers and Itsu meals have soared 51% over the past year.

Ocado’s delivery data found that the weekend is the most popular time for these items to be delivered, with products from brands including Leon, Pizza Express and Gymkhana delivered most often on Fridays, while shoppers are opting for Nando’s, Wagamama and YO!Sushi on Sunday.

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The retailer has also seen a positive response to the rise of ‘restaurant to retail’ options on shelf, as exclusive to Ocado, sales of jarred sauces from two Michelin star Indian restaurant Gymkhana have risen by 111%, while sales of Hawksmoor steaks are up 32% since last year.

It comes as new research found that 75% of consumers are more conscious of their spending on takeaways and meals out than they were this time last year. However, 56% of Brits are still prepared to purchase restaurant-branded products to treat themselves at home.

In response to rising consumer demand, Ocado has increased its restaurant to retail offering by 77%, introducing brands such as Asma Khan and Caravan over the past year.

Ocado Retail chief commercial officer Amit Chitnis said: “Treating yourself with a special meal at the weekend is a long held tradition for many families, and the rising trend for ‘fakeaways’ that we’ve spotted shows that many people are looking to enjoy their Friday night dinner for less and from the comfort of their own home.

“Whether it’s gourmet burgers or Michelin-starred sauces, we’ve got something for every palate at Ocado thanks to the increasing range of restaurant to retail brands available on site.”