UK supermarket inflation hits record high

The UK is experiencing record-high supermarket price inflation, with a 17.5% increase in grocery prices in the four weeks to 19 March compared to the same period the previous year, according to data from Kantar.

This equates to an average annual household bill for groceries of £5,617, with price rises being particularly noticeable in eggs, milk, and cheese.

To cope with these increases, consumers are increasingly shopping around and visiting three or more of the top 10 food retailers each month.

Despite this, grocery sales have still grown by 8.6% in the 12 weeks to 19 March, with Lidl being the fastest-growing supermarket and Aldi reaching a record market share of 9.9%.

However, there are concerns about product shortages due to high energy prices, Brexit, and the climate crisis, with some supermarkets rationing certain salad items.

Sue Davies, the head of food policy at Which? has called for supermarkets to ensure that affordable, basic food is available to all, with clear unit pricing to help consumers find the best value options.