URGENT UPDATE: A shocking investigation by the Mail on Sunday has revealed that popular Christmas hampers are being sold at inflated prices, costing up to 85% more than the value of their individual contents. This alarming trend has raised serious concerns for holiday shoppers as we approach the festive season.
According to the report published on December 20, 2025, many festive gift hampers are marketed as luxurious bargains, but buyers are paying significantly more for the packaging than the actual products inside. Consumer rights expert Martyn James stated, “Hamper inflation is one of the more outrageous examples of profiteering over the festive period.”
The investigation highlights a stark example with Waitrose’s ‘No.1 Classic Christmas Hamper.’ Priced at £150, the items within only total £80.92 when purchased separately, resulting in an astonishing 85% mark-up. Even after a recent price reduction to £135, the hamper still costs £54.08 more than its contents.
Included in the Waitrose hamper are items such as All Butter Aged Gouda Crispies for £2.21, Salted Caramel Truffles at £7.50, and Cava Brut priced at £9.50. A spokesperson for Waitrose defended their pricing, claiming, “Our hamper takes the hassle out of Christmas gifting by offering a ready-made, expertly-curated selection.”
Similarly, Marks & Spencer offers their ‘Sweet and Sparkling Treats Gift Hamper’ for £35, while the contents only amount to £17.75, marking a 97% increase. This includes treats like Winterberry Spritz and Hot Maple Popcorn. M&S emphasized that their hampers are “thoughtfully curated” to provide convenience.
Tesco also draws scrutiny with their ‘Finest Christmas Hamper with Prosecco’ priced at £35, with an actual value of £26.60, marking a 32% increase. A Tesco spokesperson stated their hampers offer “a beautifully presented, ready-made gift,” but shoppers are left questioning the value.
In another example, Thorntons charges £115 for its ‘Ultimate Christmas Hamper’, which includes contents valued at £93, a 24% mark-up. Meanwhile, Hotel Chocolat lists their ‘Chocolate Adventurer’s Hamper’ at a staggering £265, despite the individual product value being £226.65.
As holiday shoppers begin their gift purchasing, experts are urging consumers to consider creating their own hampers. “Assume that all hampers are a rip-off,” James advised. He encourages buyers to purchase items individually from various retailers, potentially teaching companies a lesson about pricing practices.
This developing story emphasizes the need for consumers to be vigilant and informed as they navigate holiday shopping. With significant price disparities revealed, shoppers are likely to rethink their purchasing decisions this Christmas.
As the festive season approaches, expect more updates on this issue as consumers weigh their options and retailers respond to growing scrutiny.
