Cost of living crisis pushes consumers to give up Easter celebrations

Almost half (45 per cent) of consumers say that the cost-of-living crisis will have an impact on their Easter celebrations this year, according to a new study from TopCashback.

In fact, over a third (36 per cent) will not be celebrating Easter at all with financial struggles being cited as one of the most popular reasons for doing so. A quarter (24 per cent) of those who don’t plan to celebrate, say it’s because they simply can’t afford to.

Those who do plan to mark the occasion, will be spending an average of £104 – £4.5bn as a nation, which is £221m less than what families spent on Easter in 2022.

When it comes to ‘on the day’ plans, most will be having a meal at home (40 per cent) or visiting their loved ones (36 per cent). Meanwhile, only one in 12 (8 per cent) will be going for a meal out.

Over a third (35 per cent) also have plans to enjoy a family day out over the Easter break. Unsurprisingly, free and budget friendly options like a walk in the park (38 per cent), an Easter egg hunt (33 per cent) and a trip to the cinema (27 per cent) are the most popular choices.

Meanwhile, Easter gifting is set to see a decline, with consumers planning to scale back on small gestures like buying flowers and sending cards. Just 34 per cent will be spending money on gifts for their loved ones, and of those who won’t be – over a quarter say it’s because they don’t have the money to do it.

However, most (93 per cent) will still be buying chocolate eggs, with national spend on the Easter staple set to reach £912m (£78m less than in 2022). Worryingly though, some 21 per cent of those who won’t be buying any Easter eggs, say they can’t afford them.

Adam Bullock, UK Director at TopCashback, said “Easter has always been about spending quality time as a family, so it’s disheartening to know that the cost-of-living crisis is having such a profound impact on people, some are forced to give this up.”

“Although this year may not be about having a big meal or an expensive day out, I hope that most families will still be able to come together and enjoy some of the free and budget friendly activities on offer.”

“Whatever you do, be sure to check for deals and discounts online. TopCashback for example, will be offering free Easter eggs as well as savings on groceries, gifts and family attractions.”