A decades-old Morrisons receipt has taken the internet by storm, offering a fascinating glimpse into how dramatically grocery shopping costs have changed over the past two decades.
The Viral Time Capsule
Dated 23rd October 2001, the faded till slip reveals a shopping basket that would make today's shoppers green with envy. The total came to just £18.08 for what was then considered a substantial grocery haul.
Then vs Now: The Staggering Price Differences
Among the most eye-catching items on the receipt were:
- Chicken breasts: £2.49 for a pack that would now cost approximately £6.50
- Milk: Just 64p for two pints compared to today's £1.15+
- Bread: A loaf for 36p versus the current £1.20+
- Butter: 84p per pack, now typically £2.00+
The Inflation Reality Check
According to the Bank of England's inflation calculator, that £18.08 shop from 2001 would equate to roughly £32.50 in today's money. However, the actual cost to purchase those same items now would likely exceed £45 - demonstrating how grocery inflation has significantly outpaced the general rate.
Why This Receipt Resonates
The viral receipt has sparked widespread discussion among shoppers who remember when a twenty-pound note could genuinely fill a trolley. Social media users have been sharing their own memories of cheaper shopping days, with many expressing shock at how much their weekly grocery bill has increased.
This simple piece of paper serves as a powerful reminder of how purchasing power has diminished over time, making it increasingly challenging for families to manage their food budgets in the current cost of living climate.
