In recent years, the incessant rise in prices has put many households in difficulty. However, for the 2024 Christmas holidays, the French do not seem to want to restrict themselves. Indeed, a Cofidis study shows that 32% of consumers do not plan to limit their spending for these end-of-year holidays.
A percentage, up 6 points compared to 2023, which reaches its highest level since 2021. The average budget for a Christmas dinner thus reaches 132 euros. Either, an increase of 12 euros compared to last year.
According to BFMTVthis increase is driven by the increase in purchasing power in a context of falling food prices in recent months.
Foie gras and oysters finally on the decline for Christmas
Foie gras is a true emblem of festive meals. Good news! This year, the New Year’s Eve dinner will be less expensive. Indeed, Dominique Schelcher, CEO of Cooperative U, confirmed on BFMTV a expected drop of 5 to 6% on this festive product. This reduction in prices is explained by a significant improvement in supply. Especially after two years marked by the consequences of avian flu. Vast vaccination campaigns on farms have brought the sector out of the impasse. Thus, foie gras production is expected to increase by 33% this year. This will allow consumers to find this delicious dish at more affordable prices!
Seafood lovers will also have something to rejoice. Oysters, the flagship product of end-of-year meals, should also be significantly less expensive. However, this drop in prices hides a worrying reality for producers. For three years, oyster consumption has been decreasing. A situation which leads to an accumulation of stocks. This is why producers are forced to cut prices, sometimes at a loss. In 2024, a kilo of oysters is sold for only 2 euros. That’s a drop of 60% compared to the previous year. Moreover, Dominique Schelcher launched an appeal to the French to support this sector in difficulty. “ Buy oysters, they’re a popular holiday item and they’re much more affordable this year. »
Christmas chocolates still in tension
On the other hand, for the lovers of sweet treatsthe news is not as encouraging. The essential Christmas chocolates continue to experience a surge in prices. In fact, for almost two years, world cocoa prices reach record highs. In 2024, they will be three times higher than 10 years ago. The cause? Difficult harvests in West Africa, the main supplier of cocoa worldwide.
This situation results in a 5 to 6% increase in shelf prices for Christmas chocolates. Dominique Schelcher recognized that this tense context has a direct impact on consumption. « Christmas chocolates are off to a rocky start this year due to their high price, but we’ll take stock on December 24. »
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Shutterstock The 2024 Christmas meal will be lighter on the budget!
A Christmas marked by moderation and pleasure
Despite the rise in chocolate prices, significant drop in prices of other festive products has given many families hope that Christmas will be easier to manage. In particular, with the return of foie gras prices to more affordable levels. But also, with oysters which offer a great opportunity to find them at extremely low prices. So, the French seem ready to make the most of their New Year’s Eve.
This development marks a welcome break from the economic tensions of previous years. Christmas 2024, even if it does not completely erase the difficulties of everyday life, nevertheless promises tobring a moment of respite. With the possibility of meeting around the festive table without having to cut back on the budget to have fun!
