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It will cost, on average, €32.28 to cook Christmas dinner for a family of four. Alamy Stock Photo
Cost of Christmas
Christmas dinner will set you back more than usual this year
The cost of chocolate is also on the rise.
CHRISTMAS DINNER IS predicted to cost even more this year, coming in at €32.28 altogether for a family of four.
Due to grocery inflation, which currently stands at 6%, Christmas dinner has increased by almost €1 from last year, according to market research company Worldpanel.
The cost of chocolate is also on the rise – prices increased by 13.5% compared to last year.
The latest data from the CSO on inflation suggests that in November, consumer prices rose by the highest annual rates since March 2024 – with prices of basic grocery items shooting up.
According to Worldpanel, the average price of a turkey in the four weeks before 30 November was €5.13, up over 14% from the same time last year.
Gravy granules saw the second largest increase at over 12% in the year, now costing €2.77, while wine was the only item which decreased in price, but only marginally by -0.2%.
On average, carrots for four cost €1.08, Brussel sprouts cost €1.55, stuffing mix costs €2.54, potatoes cost €3.19, parsnips cost €1.28 and biscuits costs €6.49.
Business Director Emer Healy said that prices on essentials like vegetables are going down, but seasonal products like turkeys and biscuits are surging.
Despite the increases, people are buying more groceries than before, including name brand items.
In November, shoppers spent €56 million more on groceries and almost €96 million on branded ranges compared to the same period last year.
Healy said: “For many shoppers, festive indulgence remains a priority.”
“At this time of year, shoppers aren’t necessarily looking at price. While promotions play
a role, this season is about more than discounts. Many are looking to indulge a bit,
despite cost-of-living pressures, and this is reflected in consumer choices, including
choosing more brands to enjoy over the Christmas period.”
The latest data shows that brands hold the highest value share seen since January
2025. €2.1 million was spent on branded seasonal chocolate alone in comparison to last year.
Market share rates
Dunnes Stores remains the most popular shop for groceries in Ireland, but Lidl is seeing the fastest growth in market share.
It holds 24.8% market share, a number which is on the rise, while sales are also increasing.
Tesco holds 24% of the market and SuperValu holds 19.3%, Lidl holds 13.5% and Aldi holds 10.9%.
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