It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas… but unfortunately, it’s also beginning to cost a lot more too.
According to new research by Assosia for the BBC, the average cost of a seven-item Christmas dinner will be nearly 22% more expensive this year than in 2021. That’s an extra £5.36 on top of what you might have already budgeted. So what’s driving these price hikes? And are there any ways to keep costs down? Read on to find out.
Why Are Christmas Costs Rising?
There are a few factors at play here. First of all, demand for many festive foods is outstripping supply due to the pandemic. This is especially true for key ingredients like chipolatas (the sausage component of pigs-in-blankets), with prices rising by as much as 33% in some cases. Additionally, the weakened pound means that imported goods are now more expensive than they were last year. Finally, higher prices for transportation and packaging materials are also having an impact. All of these increases have been passed on to shoppers in the form of higher prices at the supermarket checkouts.
Christmas is a time of year when people come together to celebrate and give thanks for the blessings in their lives. For many, it is also a time to give back to those less fortunate. This year, charities are working overtime to help those in need, as the cost of goods has risen by almost 22%. This is especially difficult for low-income households and pensioners, who will struggle to afford even the basics this holiday season. Thankfully, there are organisations that are dedicated to ensuring that everyone can enjoy the festive period, regardless of their circumstances. By donating to these charities, you can help make someone’s Christmas a little brighter.
What Can You Do to Save Money?
If you’re feeling the pinch this Christmas, there are still some ways that you can save money on your grocery bill. One option is to switch to cheaper brands for some items – particularly those where quality doesn’t make such a big difference (like cranberry sauce, for example). You could also try making more items from scratch rather than buying them ready-made. If you’re feeling really ambitious, you could even attempt to grow your own Christmas tree! Whatever route you decide to take, we hope you have a happy – and affordable – holiday season.
Conclusion
This Christmas is shaping up to be an expensive one, with costs rising by nearly 22% compared to last year. The main reasons behind this are increased demand, import costs and higher transportation and packaging prices. However, there are still ways that savvy shoppers can keep their costs down. So put on your Santa hat and get creative – your wallet will thank you for it later!
