A £50 warning has been issued for mums and dads buying ice cream for kids over the summer holidays. Parents are being warned over the 'increasing expense' of the seasonal treat, with ice cream vans ever-popular in Birmingham and beyond.
Aldi has warned that parents will fork out almost £50 per child on ice creams over the six-week break. A poll of 2,000 mums and dads of children aged four to 16 found the average price of a single ice cream is now £2.65.
Average child eats three ice creams per week
According to the survey, the average child tucks into three ice creams a week over the summer holidays. This amounts to a total of £47.70 over the six-week break. A third of parents admitted they have skipped buying an ice cream for themselves so their child could have one instead.
In a further sign of financial strain, a quarter of parents have even told their child that the ice cream van has run out of ice cream to avoid the expense.
Aldi's warning to families
Julie Ashfield, chief commercial officer for Aldi, said in a warning for parents up and down the country: 'Summer holidays are becoming increasingly expensive for families, with the cost of everyday treats and activities quickly adding up. With so many families budgeting months in advance and worrying about costs, it's never been more important that everyday essentials and family favourites remain affordable. That's why we're committed to keeping prices low on popular summer products as we know it can make a real difference, helping families enjoy the holiday period without having to compromise on the moments that matter most.'
Ice cream sellers also feel the heat
Last month, an ice cream seller in Herefordshire temporarily closed its business for two days to protect staff and customers during the hot weather. Oakchurch Farm Shop, in Staunton-on-Wye, said Scoop Ice Cream Shack, which offered homemade ice creams and sorbets, would be shut as the UK heatwave saw temperatures skyrocket, with 37C mercury at times.
