Tesco has issued a Bank Holiday update as parents prepare to stock up on lunchbox essentials ahead of the new school term. The supermarket is expecting a surge in demand over the long weekend, which falls just before many children across the country return to school.
Sales forecasts for lunchbox favourites
Tesco predicts sales of children's yogurts and drinks will be 42% higher than during the same period last year, while demand for berries and currants is expected to rise by 14%. The retailer believes the timing of the Bank Holiday will see families using the extra time to prepare for the school run, with food, uniforms, and stationery among the items expected to fly off shelves.
Retailer comments on demand
Sarah-Jane Gregory, Tesco Buying Manager for Yogurt at Tesco, said: "This year's Bank Holiday falls just before many children head back to school, so we're expecting lots of families to spend the weekend getting ready for the new term and stocking up on lunchbox favourites.
"We're forecasting particularly strong demand for products such as kids' yogurts, drinks and berries as parents look for convenient options for breakfast, lunchboxes and after-school snacks. We're also continuing to see significant growth in Greek yogurt, with more customers choosing it as a versatile option that can be enjoyed at breakfast, paired with fruit, or used as a snack throughout the day."
Uniform and stationery sales expected to rise
Tesco is also expecting this week to be its busiest period of the year for school uniform shopping, both in stores and online. Stationery sales could climb by 16% compared with last year's August Bank Holiday as parents pick up last-minute supplies.
The supermarket is currently running a four-for-three promotion on more than 110 lunchbox snacks in larger stores and online until September 15. Tesco Express stores are offering three-for-two on selected products.
Greek yogurt growth continues
It comes as Greek yogurt continues to grow in popularity beyond children's lunchboxes. Tesco says sales volumes across the category are up 32% compared with 2024, while sales of its Finest Greek Yogurt have increased by 181% over the past two years.
