UPDATE: A shocking investigation by Mail on Sunday reveals that many popular Christmas hampers are priced at double the cost of their individual items. This urgent report highlights rampant price inflation during the festive season, with consumers paying premium prices for items that can be purchased separately for significantly less.
Consumer rights expert Martyn James condemned the trend, stating, “Hamper inflation is one of the more outrageous examples of profiteering over the festive period.” He urges shoppers to consider creating their own hampers instead of falling for inflated prices.
Key findings show that Waitrose’s ‘No.1 Classic Christmas Hamper’, originally at £150, contains goods worth only £80.92 when bought individually, marking an astonishing 85 percent markup. Even after a recent price reduction to £135, the hamper still costs £54.08 more than purchasing the items separately.
Inside the Waitrose hamper, premium treats include:
– All Butter Aged Gouda Crispies: £2.21
– Salted Caramel Truffles: £7.50
– Cava Brut: £9.50
Marks & Spencer also joins the fray with their ‘Sweet and Sparkling Treats Gift Hamper’ priced at £35, while the contents amount to just £17.75, resulting in a 97 percent markup. The hamper features items like:
– Winterberry Spritz: £5
– Hot Maple Popcorn: £2
Meanwhile, Tesco offers a ‘Finest Christmas Hamper with Prosecco’ for £35, which contains items worth only £26.60, creating a 32 percent markup. Key items include:
– Finest Prosecco Valdobbiadene: £10
– Salted Caramel Truffles: £5
Thorntons and Hotel Chocolat are also under scrutiny. Thorntons’ ‘Ultimate Christmas Hamper’ costs £115, while its contents total £93, a markup of 24 percent. The luxurious basket includes a bottle of Bottega Gold Prosecco priced at £20.
Hotel Chocolat’s ‘Chocolate Adventurer’s Hamper’ is the priciest at £265, while the individual items tally up to £226.65, showcasing a markup of 17 percent. A spokesperson claimed that the hampers provide a value-for-money gift experience.
With prices skyrocketing, shoppers are facing tough choices this holiday season. As James advises, “Buy your own basket, which are really cheap online, and make your own hamper.” This approach not only saves money but also sends a clear message to retailers about inflated pricing.
As the holiday shopping rush intensifies, consumers are urged to be vigilant about their spending. The trend of overpriced hampers poses significant implications for holiday budgets, prompting a reevaluation of gifting choices.
Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to track consumer spending trends this festive season.
