A quarter of UK customers are struggling with their food bills as grocery inflation soared to its highest level ever recorded.

Supermarket fuit and veg ailse

Grocery inflation has hit a record high of 17.1%, according to data from Kantar

In the four weeks to February 19, 2023, grocer inflation hit a record high of 17.1%, according to the latest Kantar grocery market share data.

Fraser McKevitt, head of retail and consumer insight at Kantar, said customers were struggling as food bills increase by an average of £811 a year.

“Shoppers have been facing sustained price rises for some time now and this February marks a full year since monthly grocery inflation climbed above 4%. This is having a big impact on people’s lives.

“Our latest research shows that grocery price inflation is the second most important financial issue for the public behind energy costs, with two-thirds of people concerned by food and drink prices, above public sector strikes and climate change.

“One quarter say they’re struggling financially, versus one in five this time last year. The numbers speak for themselves. If people don’t change how they buy their groceries, households are facing an £811 increase to their average annual bill.”

In response, customers have been switching to own-brand groceries as the supermarkets push investment into these lines.

“The battle to offer best value for consumers continues in this intensely competitive sector, particularly as the traditional retailers look to protect market share from the discounters. Own-label ranges have been one obvious focus and shoppers have consistently bought them over brands since February last year,” said McKevitt.

Customers have also been navigating well-publicised shortages in fresh fruit and vegetables as many grocers have implemented limits.

Aldi hits new record market share

Discounter Aldi hit a record market share level over the period, up to 9.4%. Aldi’s sales grew 26.7%, making it the fastest-growing grocer over the period.

 

Lidl was the second fastest-growing supermarket over the period, increasing its sales by 25.4% and its share of the market to 7.1%.

Frozen food specialist Iceland also won share, taking 2.4% of market sales, up from 2.3% last year, as spending through its tills increased by 10.8%.

Tesco sales edged up 6.6% over the period, Sainsbury’s and Asda were just behind with sales rising by 6.2% and 5.9% respectively. Morrisons sales declined 0.9%, which was its best performance since May 2021.

Ocado grew sales 11.3% for the period, despite overall online sales slipping 0.9%.

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