Parents are set to spend nearly £50 per child on ice creams over the summer holidays, with one in 10 paying as much as £4 per cone from ice cream vans, according to a survey of 2,000 parents.
Average price rises
The average price of an ice cream now stands at £2.65, and 85% of parents believe the days of the 99p whippy are long gone. The typical child will indulge in three ice creams a week over the six-week break, totalling £47.70.
Regional differences
Ice cream prices vary across the UK, with Leeds being the most expensive at £2.86 per cone, followed by London (£2.82), Bristol and Manchester (both £2.80). In Leeds, 18% of parents admit to paying at least £4 each time they buy a cone – more than in any other city.
Families making sacrifices
To cope with costs, one in three parents have given up their own ice cream, while a quarter have told their child the ice cream van has run out to avoid the expense. The research shows families spend an extra £200 on average during summer compared to term time, including £49 on weekly groceries, £134 on eating out, £105 on holiday clubs, £132 on day trips, and £70 on at-home activities.
Aldi's response
The study was commissioned by Aldi, which recently handed out free ice creams from a 'Summer Cool Down' van in London. Julie Ashfield, Aldi's chief commercial officer, said: "Summer holidays are becoming increasingly expensive for families, with the cost of everyday treats and activities quickly adding up. With so many families budgeting months in advance and worrying about costs, it's never been more important that everyday essentials and family favourites remain affordable. That's why we're committed to keeping prices low on popular summer products as we know it can make a real difference, helping families enjoy the holiday period without having to compromise on the moments that matter most."
Aldi has cut prices on more than 300 family favourites as part of a £300 million investment to lower prices on over 1,000 products this year. It has also launched a Summer Support Scheme, giving away £50 shops to families every day throughout July and August.
Consequently, a third of parents worry about the expense, while 30% budget in advance – with 21% starting as early as January. Furthermore, 38% want to give their children the best summer but feel restricted by what they can afford.
