06.01.202600:22:42UTC+00UK Shop Price Inflation Inches Higher in December

In December 2025, UK shop price inflation increased to 0.7% year-on-year, up from 0.6% in November, marking its first rise in three months. This acceleration was primarily driven by increased food costs during the holiday season. Notably, food price inflation rose to 3.3% year-on-year, compared to the previous rate of 3%. Specifically, fresh food prices surged to 3.8% from 3.6%, while ambient food prices also saw a slight increase, reaching 2.5% from 2.4%. In contrast, non-food prices continued their decline, with inflation remaining at minus 0.6% year-on-year in December, unchanged from November. Helen Dickinson, Chief Executive of the BRC, commented that the uptick in shop price inflation was largely due to faster-rising food prices. However, she pointed out that consumers were able to find good value in many Christmas essentials, such as vegetables, cheeses, and alcohol, enhancing their festive celebrations. Dickinson further noted that declining energy prices and improved crop yields are expected to alleviate cost pressures in the coming year.