Shoppers have been warned ahead of Christmas that prices for dozens of festive groceries and snacks have risen by up to 70 per cent more than inflation.
Which? new research? The research found that chocolate items have seen the biggest price increases over last year, while the cost of many Christmas dinner essentials has also risen significantly.
By tracking the prices of more than 25,000 products across major supermarkets, the consumer group found chocolate had the highest year-on-year inflation rate of 14.2%.
Chocolate makers say poor crop yields on cocoa farms due to climate change are partly to blame for rising prices, while many have noticed smaller products or changes in ingredients.
Which? The research found that at Morrisons, a pack of Lindt milk chocolate Teddy Christmas tree ornaments rose from £3.50 in 2024 to £6 in 2025, an increase of 71.4%.
Prices for dozens of holiday groceries and snacks are rising faster than inflation (Getty Images)
Meanwhile, at Tesco, the popular Terry’s Chocolate Orange has risen from £1.50 to £2.50 (up 66.7%). However, the product comes with a club card for £1.80.
In more bad news for Christmas shoppers, researchers also found several examples of turkey prices rising well above inflation.
The biggest rise was in Tesco, whose Finest free-range medium turkeys rose from £53.82 to £68.77, an increase of £14.95, or 27.8%. However, the price of holding a club card is still £53.82.
Meanwhile, at Ocado, KellyBronze free-range extra-large turkeys have risen by £14.63, or 12.5%, from £117.00 to £131.63.
Speaking of overall price increases last year, Which? Researchers found Waitrose had the highest price rise, at 6.2%. This is followed by Sainsbury’s (5.4%) and Morrisons (5%).
Ocado, Lidl, Tesco and Aldi all have inflation below 5%, but Asda is the only supermarket with price inflation below the current 3%. CPI unexpectedly fell sharply to 3.2% in November due to slowing food prices.
Rising turkey prices could make Christmas dinner more expensive this year (Getty Images)
Reina Servaz, which one? Retail editors said: “The findings show that headline inflation figures often do not give a full picture of the situation shoppers face when buying Christmas food in supermarkets, with prices for some items rising by 70% year-on-year.”
“Shoppers worried about their finances this festive period can save money by shopping at Aldi, Lidl and Asda, which have the lowest year-on-year inflation and tend to be the cheapest supermarkets overall.
“It’s also a good idea to keep an eye on unit prices when shopping at any time of year, as this will make it easier to compare different pack sizes, brands and ranges to ensure you’re getting the best deal.”
A spokesperson for Morrisons said: “At Morrisons we remain committed to providing customers with great, affordable products at Christmas and throughout the year. Our More Card members can also earn more points on every purchase and redeem these points towards Fives shopping. They can also enjoy market-leading discounts as well as personalized offers and surprises.”
An Ocado spokesperson said: “At Ocado, we offer the widest range of products in any UK supermarket, giving customers the chance to create a Christmas feast that suits them, whatever their budget. In addition, through the Ocado Price Promise, we will continue to price match Tesco.com all year round on more than 10,000 products that customers know and love, including promotional and loyalty card prices.”
A spokesperson for Sainsbury’s said: “We believe Christmas should be about joy and generosity, which is why we are committed to offering customers excellent value with quality they can trust. Last month, our delicious Taste the Difference all-butter mince pies and mini all-butter mince pies were sold through Nectar for £1.75, more than 10% cheaper than last year.
“As the big day approaches we’re continuing to offer great deals, with price-matching mince pies priced at just £1.25, and from Thursday 18 December until Christmas Eve, Sainsbury’s is offering classic vegetable toppings including carrots, Brussels sprouts, parsnips and more for just 15p (nectar prices).”
Waitrose has been contacted for comment.
