29 Dec 2022Data published by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) has suggested that sales of festive food rose by 0.9% in November. However, retail sales volumes fell last month following lower than anticipated Black Friday sales. The data comes as research carried out on behalf of the BBC revealed that the price of Christmas dinner is almost 22% more expensive than last year. Experts have stated that households have had less money to spend as a result of the ongoing cost-of-living crisis and higher interest rates. Darren Morgan, Director of Economic Statistics at the ONS, commented: 'Retail sales fell overall in November, driven by a notable drop for online retailers, with Black Friday offers failing to provide their usual lift in this sector. 'Food and alcohol sales were also up, with consumers stocking up early to try to spread the cost of Christmas festivities.'