Cost of Living Crisis forces Bournemouth Christmas Market stallholders to increase prices of their goods, putting locals off visiting the festive event.
Thousands flock to the market each year, but this season stall owners “won’t be surprised if sales aren’t as good as usual” due to the increased prices in comparison to previous years.
Merrymakers on the hunt for hot bratwurst or gluhwein will have to content with price hikes of up to £1.50 on some items. Some sausages have been priced at £7, while drinks prices have risen between 50p and £1.
Local mother of four, Maya Smith, explained how she comes to the market every year and it is her family’s ‘highlight’ of the season.
She said: “I can’t afford to bring my kids here this year, it really does break my heart, but I just can’t justify spending that kind of money at the moment.”
“I don’t want to bring my kids here and then disappoint them because I can’t buy anything for them. Eating the food and shopping is part of the fun, but I just can’t afford it.”
‘Yorkshire Pudding Wraps’ owner said that their family business has been “massively affected by the cost-of-living crisis” and prices have “hit an all-time high”.
This year is the family businesses’ second year at Bournemouth Christmas Market and the price of one Yorkshire Pudding Wrap has increased from £8 to £10.
“People have complained about the rise in prices, but we won’t make a profit if we didn’t increase the prices, so what are we supposed to do?”
“It’s not just the food that has increased in price from the supplier, it’s more the actual equipment and resources we use like the tinfoil, napkins and cutlery.”
‘Butterscotch Coffee’ owner Joe Kenny said: “This is my first year at Bournemouth Market, but I did expect it to be busier, and from speaking to other stall owners they all expected the same, so maybe the overall increase in prices is the reason.”
Market stalls are now open daily from 11am-11pm until January 2nd, with over 40 stalls selling food, alcoholic drinks, and gifts perfect for loved ones at Christmas.
The Market is also home to a two-story Alpine lodge, The Christmas Tree Wonderland and an Ice-Skating rink situated in the gardens.
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