Some Easter eggs have increased by 50% in a year while others have decreased in size

Prices of Easter eggs have significantly increased this year, with some products rising by as much as 50%. A study has revealed that chocolate prices have surged by 16.5% in the past year, which is substantially higher than the overall 4.4% increase in supermarket food and drinks. This spike in prices can be attributed to the decline in global cocoa production due to adverse weather conditions impacting the quality and quantity of cocoa beans, resulting in increased wholesale costs.

For example, a pack of Terry’s chocolate orange mini eggs, initially priced at 99p for an 80g pack at Lidl last Easter, has now risen to £1.35 while shrinking in size to 70g. This translates to a 56% increase in price per 100g. Similarly, other supermarkets have also witnessed significant price hikes in Easter eggs. Asda saw a 51% increase in the price of the same product, Sainsbury’s experienced a 37% increase, and Tesco noted a 14% rise.

Across different stores, variations in price changes and product sizes have been observed. A 200g Cadbury Creme Egg 5 Pack Mixed Chocolate Box at Morrisons has increased from £2.62 to £4 this year. Meanwhile, a Nestle Kit Kat Chunky milk chocolate Easter egg has remained at the same price but reduced in size from 129g to 110g, resulting in a 17% higher cost per 100g. At Tesco, a Twix white chocolate Easter egg saw a price increase from £5 to £6, along with a reduction in size from 316g to 258g, making it 47% more expensive per 100g.

Additionally, there have been substantial price increases for other Easter treats. Asda’s Fruit & Nut Milk Chocolate 200g egg is now 73% more expensive, rising from £1.33 to £2.30. Furthermore, a 110g bag of NOMO Creamy Choc Buttons at Ocado has increased from £2.43 to £3.97, marking a 63% rise in price.

In response to these escalating costs, brands have explained that they are facing challenges due to rising manufacturing expenses, largely driven by the soaring cost of cocoa. Mars Wrigley UK emphasized that they are striving to maintain affordability for consumers by adjusting product sizes to minimize price changes. Similarly, Nestle acknowledged the impact of increased cocoa costs on production and expressed a commitment to absorbing these costs where possible while ensuring product quality. Retailers like Ocado are working closely with suppliers to keep prices fair amid external factors driving up commodity prices.

Consumers are advised to lookout for special offers, compare price per gram, and consider waiting until closer to Easter when many chocolate products are likely to be discounted. Despite the price hikes, there are still opportunities to find Easter treats at reasonable prices by being strategic in purchasing decisions.