Introduction: Costly festive staples
As households prepare for the holiday season, Which? has revealed that Christmas dinner and festive treats are costing more this year. In a survey of common holiday ingredients, shoppers are facing price hikes of up to 70% on chocolatey festive treats, while the price of a conventional turkey has jumped by as much as £15. The consumer champion’s findings underscore how inflation and supply chain pressures are squeezing budgets just as families start stocking up for celebrations.
What Exactly is more expensive?
Which? analyzed a typical Christmas shopping basket to compare prices with the previous year. The standout increases were for certain chocolates and desserts that are synonymous with festive indulgence. Some chocolate treats, often relied upon for stocking stuffers or gifts, showed price rises approaching 70% in some retailers. In contrast, staple items for the main Christmas feast, notably turkey, registered notable price hikes as well, with some customers reporting increases up to £15 depending on size and cut.
Why are prices up?
There isn’t a single reason behind these shifts. Factors include heightened costs for farmers and producers, transport and energy, and occasional supply constraints during peak demand. Retailers also adjust promotions and offers throughout the season, which can create apparent price volatility. For shoppers, the result is a more expensive plan for a traditional Christmas dinner, especially for households aiming to feed a crowd without compromising on quality.
What this means for shoppers
Budgeting becomes more crucial as the festive period approaches. Experts suggest several practical steps to soften the impact without sacrificing tradition:
- Plan a realistic guest list and buy non-perishable ingredients ahead when prices dip post-holiday sales.
- Compare unit prices rather than relying on shelf labels; a higher-priced item isn’t always better value.
- Choose store-brand or own-brand chocolates and desserts that offer similar quality at lower cost.
- Consider a tray of meat alternatives or a flexible turkey size; large birds might offer cost savings per kilogram but can lead to waste if not used fully.
- Use seasonal fruit and nuts to create festive desserts that feel special without the premium for pre-packaged treats.
Shoppers can also lean on loyalty cards, price-match policies, and bulk-buy promotions where available to stretch the budget further. Reading the fine print on offers remains essential to avoid hidden costs or disappointment at checkout.
Tips for maintaining tradition while cutting costs
Families often want the same sense of celebration without the sticker shock. A few strategic substitutions can help maintain the holiday spirit while keeping spend under control:
- Trade high-cost, premium-brand chocolates for quality alternatives from trusted own-brand ranges.
- Moderate the turkey size to match the number of guests, and supplement with affordable sides like roasted vegetables and homemade gravy.
- Incorporate a simple, crowd-pleasing dessert—think a classic chocolate yule log or tiramisu made at home with store-brand ingredients.
Bottom line
Which?’s analysis is a reminder that Christmas planning extends beyond the tree and carols. With prices rising for both festive chocolates and traditional proteins, households should adopt a proactive budgeting approach, compare prices, and stay flexible with menus. By making small adjustments and prioritizing value, families can still deliver a memorable Christmas dinner without overspending.
