Increased cost of Christmas goodies threatens Queenslanders’ hip pockets

Many Aussies will feel the pinch this Christmas, with the prices of certain holiday staples rising up to 42 per cent. HOW TO SAVE

Amid the cost-of-living crunch, many will feel the pinch this Christmas, with the prices of certain holiday staples soaring up to 42 per cent.

A 500g pavlova, a Christmas lunch essential for many Aussies, has gone up 41.66 per cent in price since 2021, Cadbury Favourites are up 7.14 per cent, and a Steggles Turkey Breast Roast is now an additional $2.5 per kilogram, according to market research.

Retail worker Brandon Collins said the increase in prices will force him into making more cautious decisions leading up to the holiday season

“I think that it will definitely affect this Christmas, we’ll be being more conscious of what we are actually buying and not going overboard, and buying different brands instead of the regular,” he said.

“People will probably have to pick between certain things and not go as extravagant as maybe what they used to, like instead of having ham and turkey, people will be choosing to have just one.”

Mr Collins said he had already seen a change in customers’ spending habits in the retail industry.

Brandon Collins enjoys his pavlova even as prices are going up. Picture: John Gass

“At work we’ve seen how little people are spending already, being much more savvy and how much tighter people are,” he said.

Compare the Market spokeswoman Sarah Alexi has shared her tips on how Aussies can save money this Christmas season by searching catalogues for the best prices and making lists (and sticking to them).

“If you want to maximise your savings, it’s important to shop around and look at the stores’ catalogues beforehand to find the best prices and discounts,” she said.

Dr Alexi also recommends shoppers be disloyal to their rewards program if they find cheaper options at alternative stores, look at the top and bottom shelves for the best-priced items, and keep an eye on rewards that are offered by insurance companies or energy retailers.

“A difference of a few dollars can really add up – especially if you’ve got a few children or extended family coming for Christmas. Which is why it’s so important to plan ahead, delegate who is buying what, and browse for the best deals online, so that you can relax on the special day,” she said.