Air fryers in. Sofa beds out
Mar 13, 2024
The ONS 2024 'basket of goods and services' has just been announced. The nations' trolley holds over 700 items that represent the typical consumer spend.
This annual update from the Office for National Statistics reflects the changing tastes and habits of UK consumers and upholds the relevance of inflation estimates.
IN - The air fryer is now on many a kitchen counter with spend increasing over 30% between 2021 and 2022. The energy saving aspect as well as the health benefits of cooking with less oil have made this item appealing.
Vinyl records have returned after a resurgence in popularity. We last saw vinyl on the list in 1992 since when they were replaced by CDs and cassettes. Also new in are rice cakes, gluten free bread and spray oil.
OUT - Out goes the sofa bed reflecting a drop in popularity. Bakeware - such as a baking tray or roasting tin, will be represented by frying pans in future - with the price movements for both following similar trends. Goodbyes also to hand sanitiser and rotisserie chicken.
Matt Corder, Deputy Director for Prices, ONS: “Often the basket reflects the adoption of new technology, but the return of vinyl records shows how cultural revivals can affect our spending.
“Healthier lifestyle products continue to influence consumer choice reflected by the addition of the air fryer, spray oils and rice cakes.”
To accompany the release, the ONS has produced a VIDEO explaining some of the key changes to the basket for media outlets to use in their online or broadcast coverage.
