Some American habits have slowly made their way into British culture, and not all of them are worth keeping.
It’s always been a bit odd how obsessed many in Britain are with being more like our pals across the pond, and certain things we’ve started copying are better off left on the other side of the Atlantic.
1. Super-sizing portions
British portions have slowly grown, thanks to America’s love of “bigger is better.” Huge servings can be tempting, but they often lead to food waste and unhealthy eating habits. Traditional British meals weren’t about excess, but the influence of oversized portions has made its mark. A return to balanced serving sizes could benefit health and food appreciation. Sometimes less really is more.
2. Obsessing over celebrity culture
Britain has always had its own share of celebrity fascination, but the American obsession with fame has amplified it. Now, every detail of celebrity lives seems to make headlines, even if it’s trivial. This focus distracts from real issues and can create unrealistic lifestyle pressures. Shifting back to valuing people for their actions rather than their fame would be refreshing. Not every celebrity moment needs to be a spectacle.
3. Using excessive packaging
Walk into a British supermarket now, and you’ll see items over-packaged in plastic—something that mirrors American shopping habits. Excess packaging is convenient but creates unnecessary waste. Britain traditionally had a more minimalist approach, and returning to it would help reduce environmental impact. Less packaging means less clutter and a cleaner conscience.
4. Celebrating Black Friday
The American shopping frenzy has found its way to Britain, with crowds piling into shops for Black Friday deals. The rush for sales often leads to impulse buying and waste. Britain already had Boxing Day sales, which were more relaxed and sensible. Black Friday brings a consumer-driven chaos that doesn’t quite fit the British shopping style. A quieter shopping experience feels more in line with British sensibilities.
5. Embracing tip culture
In America, tipping has become a necessity due to lower wages in certain industries, but Britain has always paid workers fairer wages. Now, however, tip culture is creeping in, making tipping feel less optional. British customers shouldn’t feel obligated to tip for basic services, as workers are typically paid decently. A return to Britain’s more straightforward approach to service would remove awkwardness for everyone.
6. Drinking super-sweet coffee
Traditional British tea and simple coffee drinks are getting replaced by sugary, dessert-like beverages. Imported from the American coffee culture, these drinks are more sugar than caffeine. The trend takes away from enjoying coffee’s natural flavours and encourages unhealthy habits. Britain’s taste for classic, straightforward drinks has been lost in the swirl of whipped cream and syrup. A return to simplicity would keep things healthier and more authentic.
7. Using “have a nice day” as filler
Source: Unsplash “Have a nice day” has become a common phrase in British shops, despite it sounding a bit forced here. While it’s genuine in the US, it often comes across as insincere in Britain. Brits traditionally prefer straightforward exchanges, which feel more natural and real. Overusing American phrases can make interactions feel overly scripted. There’s charm in Britain’s simpler, honest approach.
8. Relying on drive-thrus for meals
Drive-thru culture has found a foothold in Britain, even though it doesn’t align well with the traditional dining experience. Relying on quick, car-based meals creates a rushed, less personal way of eating. British dining used to be more about sitting down, even for casual meals. Drive-thrus prioritise convenience but take away from the pleasure of food. Britain’s slower approach to meals feels more satisfying.
9. Adopting American slang
American phrases like “awesome” and “cool” are all over British conversations, but they can sound out of place. While it’s natural to pick up words here and there, losing British slang can feel like losing a bit of identity. British slang is unique and full of character, and replacing it dilutes that charm. There’s something special about keeping language authentic to its roots.
10. Turning holidays into big commercial events
Holidays like Halloween and Valentine’s Day are becoming bigger, American-style productions in Britain, with endless decorations and themed products. The focus on buying and decorating overshadows the simple enjoyment of the day itself. Traditionally, British celebrations were more understated, emphasising family and community. Bringing back that subtlety could make holidays feel more meaningful. Celebrating doesn’t have to mean going all out.
11. Obsessing over work culture
Britain has started to adopt America’s “always-on” work mentality, making it harder to disconnect. This shift encourages longer hours and constant availability, leading to burnout. British culture has historically valued work-life balance more than constant productivity. Stepping back from the relentless work grind could restore a healthier balance. Productivity shouldn’t come at the cost of well-being.
12. Normalising “over-the-top” customer service
In America, enthusiastic customer service is the norm, but in Britain, it can feel excessive or insincere. Traditional British service was polite but low-key, without the “have a great day!” every few minutes. Keeping service interactions simple allows for a more genuine exchange. There’s value in Britain’s reserved approach to service, which feels less forced and more authentic.
13. Treating everything like a reality show
Source: Unsplash British TV has taken a page from American reality shows, turning even small dramas into spectacles. This obsession with reality TV-style conflict encourages shallow entertainment and scripted emotions. Britain’s classic programming focused more on storytelling and wit, offering something unique. Bringing back that focus on substance over spectacle could elevate British TV once more. Quality entertainment doesn’t need manufactured drama to engage viewers.
