1 in 4 Brits ‘find rising grocery prices hard to afford’

Many people are being forced to change their shopping habits because they’re struggling to absorb rising prices.

According to Ipsos UK, more than three-quarters (76%) of British shoppers have seen their typical grocery shop go up in price over the last year.

Over a quarter (27%) of those who are facing rising costs said they’re finding them difficult to afford.

As a result, many have been changing their habits over the last year to make their money go further. 

This includes:

• switching to cheaper brands - 44%
• buying yellow sticker items - 36%
• not buying non-essential items - 35%
• eating out less - 33%
• shopping around to get the best deals - 31%
• bulk buying items if it works out cheaper - 31%
• sacrificing other expenses to cover higher grocery costs - 23%

Many shoppers are also embracing supermarket’s value range, with 51% saying they buy these products more now than they would have done a year ago.

Meanwhile, 35% said they’re using price comparison sites more in order to find the best deals.

Gideon Skinner, senior director of UK politics at Ipsos, said: “Even though the rate of inflation has been more stable, Britons are still feeling the impact of rising grocery prices.

“Many consumers are turning to cost-saving measures, such as switching to cheaper value brands and seeking out discounted items, while feeling they have to cut back on going out.”

What help is available?

If you’re struggling with the cost of your weekly grocery shop, then ask for help.

We’ve also got plenty of useful online resources, including:

• a handy guide full of practical, day-to-day money saving tips
• regular updates on the latest deals, offers and promotions
• information on where to turn for help
• a benefits calculator, so you can see what state support you’re entitled to
• a budget calculator