The price of Christmas dinner is on the rise, but it's still well below the food inflation rate. And we have Brussels sprouts to thank for it. According to recent data, the average cost of a traditional turkey dinner with all the trimmings for a family of four is £31.71, which is a 1.3% increase from last year. This is a positive result considering that grocery inflation is currently sitting at around nine percent.
Brussels Sprouts Keep Prices Down
While some festive favorites have seen significant price increases, such as cranberry sauce, which is 26.5% more expensive than last year, Brussels sprouts have actually become 4.3% cheaper. This can be attributed to a bumper crop resulting from a wet summer. So, if you're a fan of sprouts, this is good news for your wallet.
Everything Else is Up
Unfortunately, everything else on our Christmas dinner plate has seen price increases. However, there is a silver lining. Christmas puddings have actually decreased in price by 2.4% this year, thanks to a festive price war among supermarkets. They are trying to attract shoppers by offering more affordable options.
Grocery Giants Expect Record Sales
Despite the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, grocery giants are projected to make a staggering £13 billion in sales this holiday season. Analysts attribute this to the fact that other seasonal food gifts, like chocolate tubs and booze, have become more expensive. However, consumers are still on the lookout for bargains and deals to help manage their spending.
Fraser McKevitt, head of retail and consumer insight at researchers Kantar, noted that customers have already saved an additional £180 million this November compared to the same time last year. This suggests that people are actively seeking out savings and discounts as they prepare for the festive season.
