Cost Trends for Christmas Dinner 2024: Turkey and Sprouts Decline Amidst Other Price Increases

Research indicates that the cost of a traditional Christmas dinner in the UK for 2024 is expected to be slightly lower than last year, primarily due to the reduced prices of turkeys and Brussels sprouts. A 10lb frozen turkey will cost £1.21 less than it did in 2023, while the price of Brussels sprouts has decreased by 12%. Consequently, the total estimated cost of a family Christmas dinner stands at £31.66 this year, down from £32.18 in 2023. This trend reflects a slower rate of inflation in food prices, as noted by the BBC and based on data from retail tracking platform Assosia.

Despite these reductions in turkey and sprout prices, other components of the Christmas meal, particularly root vegetables, have experienced significant price increases due to adverse weather conditions affecting agricultural production. Specifically, the price of Maris Piper potatoes has surged by 26%, rising from £1.58 for a 2kg bag to £1.99. Carrots have similarly increased by 13.4% due to planting delays caused by wet weather, now costing around 69p per kilo. However, industry experts suggest that retailers often lower prices in the run-up to Christmas, especially on perishable items, as a strategy to entice shoppers and stimulate overall purchase volumes.

Tom Copas, managing director of Copas Turkeys, notes a stabilization in turkey prices after a period of volatility, although he has observed a preference for smaller turkeys among customers, indicating a potential shift towards more budget-conscious spending habits. On the sprouts front, John Inglis from ESG Drysdale reports a return to normal production levels after last year’s turbulent growing conditions, although he acknowledges the divisive nature of Brussels sprouts among consumers.

Additionally, the prices of Christmas desserts are also on the rise, with Christmas pudding increasing by 11% and mince pies by 5%. Jessica White of Meg Rivers bakery confirms that rising ingredient and operational costs have prompted increases in dessert prices across the sector, although her bakery has absorbed these costs without passing them on to consumers.

When comparing prices among major supermarkets—Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Asda, Morrisons, and Aldi—Aldi emerged as the most affordable option for a basic list of Christmas essentials, costing approximately £24.30, followed by Asda at £28.22, and others. Tesco retained the highest price point at £36.51. However, consumers are advised to prepare budgets, take note of hidden expenses, and look for discounts or bulk buying opportunities during the festive shopping spree, as prices are expected to fluctuate as Christmas approaches.