The cost of Christmas dinner is rising, with overall prices up 5% from last year. Items like pigs in blankets and stuffing have seen increases of 7% or more. Despite this, supermarket promotions are helping families enjoy a festive meal without overspending—Aldi and Lidl, for example, are offering the ingredients for a full Christmas dinner for eight for under £12.
Rising Costs
Data from analysts Assosia shows that a frozen extra-large turkey now costs £3.70 per kilogram, meaning an 8kg bird would be around £29.60. Pigs in blankets are £2.88 for a pack, and gravy granules and stuffing mixes have also increased compared with 2022. However, some items, such as potatoes and frozen Yorkshire puddings, have seen small price reductions.
Food inflation in the UK rose to 4.9% in October, even as gas and electricity bills have grown more slowly. This has led many households to adopt budget-friendly strategies, including switching to supermarket own-brand products and simplifying festive menus.
Supermarket Deals
Retailers are competing heavily to attract cost-conscious shoppers. Aldi, for example, advertises a “full festive feast” for eight at just £11.75, with a 3kg fresh turkey at £9 and vegetables priced as low as 8p per portion. These promotions aim to help households manage the cost of seasonal meals.
Frozen vs. Fresh
While frozen turkeys may be slightly cheaper, around 70% of shoppers still prefer fresh birds, with premium brands like KellyBronze averaging £95–£100 per bird. Supermarket price cuts on frozen items help offset some costs, but producers warn that margins are often sacrificed to attract customers.
Smart Shopping
With annual grocery price inflation around 4.7%, consumers are increasingly choosing own-label or budget-friendly alternatives. Many supermarkets have invested in high-end own-brand ranges to give shoppers the feeling of a treat while keeping costs down.
Festive taste tests by the Good Housekeeping Institute and Which? have highlighted both premium and budget options for traditional items like mince pies, yule logs, and turkey crowns, proving that quality doesn’t always come with a hefty price tag.
A Thoughtful Christmas
Amid rising living costs, families are becoming more deliberate with their spending. Cost-conscious planning is allowing households to enjoy the holiday season without financial stress. As Katherine Scott from Park Christmas Savings notes, “People are finding smart ways to keep Christmas joyful while staying in control of costs.”
With careful shopping, creative substitutions, and attention to deals, it’s possible to enjoy a full festive meal while keeping the budget under control.
