Supermarket meal deal: Are they too expensive in a cost of living crisis?

The history of Britain’s affinity for the supermarket meal deal

Transcript

00:00In 1980, Marks & Spencer revolutionized British lunchtime by introducing the prepackaged sandwich,

00:10offering options like salmon and cucumber and egg and cress. The innovation paved the

00:15way for the modern meal deal, a convenient combination of sandwich, snack and drink at

00:22a fixed price. Supermarkets and convenience stores across the UK quickly adopted this

00:29offering, making it a staple for workers and students seeking quick, affordable meals.

00:37Over the years, these meal deals have become deeply embedded in British food culture, with

00:42Tesco alone selling over £160m worth in 2023. However, recent price increases have led to

00:51consumers questioning their value with the cost of living rising. I suppose it does beg

00:57the question, with prices going up, is the meal deal still good value for money?