Food price spike piles on the pain for households already being squeezed by higher bills

Published on: May 28, 2025

By JOHN-PAUL FORD ROJAS

Updated: 22:12 BST, 28 May 2025

Grocery price inflation has hit its steepest level since February last year.

Prices in the four weeks to May 18 were up by 4.1 per cent compared to the same period a year ago, according to data from market research firm Kantar. That was up from 3.8 per cent last month.

The rise in employer National Insurance Contributions and the minimum wage are among factors driving prices higher. Chocolate, sun cream, and butters and spreads rose fastest while pet food dipped the most.

Fraser McKevitt, from Kantar, said: ‘This latest jump in grocery price inflation takes us into new territory for 2025.

‘Households have been adapting buying habits to manage budgets for some time, but we typically see changes in behaviour once inflation tips beyond 3 per cent to 4 per cent as people notice the impact on their wallets more.’

McKevitt said many consumers were seeking promotions to get the best value. Figures last week showed inflation rose to 3.5 per cent in April, the highest level in more than a year.

Food bills: Grocery prices in the four weeks to 18 May were up by 4.1% compared to the same period a year ago, according to industry data from market research firm Kantar

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Food price spike piles on the pain for households already being squeezed by higher bills

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Food price spike piles on the pain for households already being squeezed by higher bills