Families across the United Kingdom are set to spend nearly half as much again on their traditional Christmas dinner this year, according to stark new research. A study commissioned by the Conservative Party has revealed that the cost of key festive items has surged by an average of 45 per cent compared to last year.
Supermarket Staples See Sharpest Rises
The analysis highlights dramatic price increases for specific, essential components of the holiday meal. According to the findings, Tesco’s own-brand roast potatoes have increased by 70 per cent, while Sainsbury’s carrots are now 53 per cent more expensive. The research points to significant price hikes across a range of basics, including stuffing and Yorkshire puddings, placing considerable strain on household budgets.
Shadow Business Secretary Andrew Griffith criticised the government's economic management, stating: “After a Budget jam-packed full of misery, families across Britain are stuffed, facing drastic increases in the cost of basic Christmas treats.” He attributed the inflation directly to Labour's policies, adding, “Thanks to Labour’s economic incompetence, prices are rising... Many people will be forced to scale back their celebrations as a result.”
Broader Festive Treats Also Hit Hard
The price shock is not confined to the main dinner plate. A separate study released this week by the consumer group Which? found that prices across the entire chocolate category have risen by an average of 14% year-on-year. Their report indicated that shoppers are paying up to 70% more for some Christmas chocolate treats compared to 2024.
Reena Sewraz, Retail Editor at Which?, explained that official inflation figures often mask the reality for consumers. “Blanket inflation figures do not show the full picture of what shoppers face at the supermarket when doing their Christmas food shop,” she said. “Some individual items have shot up by more than 70% in price year on year.” The group also noted that the price of a turkey has jumped by as much as £15.
Political Row Over Festive Food Bills
The research has ignited a political dispute over the cost of living. In a pointed remark, Andrew Griffith concluded, “The biggest turkey this year was Rachel Reeves’ budget.”
In response, a Labour Party government spokesperson defended their economic strategy, stating: “We’re investing billions in sustainable food production over this parliament to help farmers put food on the nation’s plates. Our recent trade deals will help make food cheaper and our Budget delivers on getting bills down.”
The combined data from political and consumer research paints a challenging picture for UK households this festive season, suggesting that scaling back may be the only option for many as they contend with the escalating cost of living crisis.
