Many of us have fond memories of grabbing a treat from an ice cream van during our childhood – a tradition that continues today, albeit with slightly steeper prices. The classic 99 is a staple for many, but the world of ice cream has evolved significantly over the years.
A woman was recently left stunned after ordering an ice cream for the first time in 43 years. Kimberley, known as kimble5 on TikTok, shared her shock at the rising cost of living and how the price of a simple treat from an ice cream van has skyrocketed over the years, leaving her completely taken aback.
She posted a video detailing her experience, expressing disbelief at how much times have changed. While ice cream vans may evoke feelings of nostalgia and happiness for many, according to Kimberley, they also have the potential to empty your wallet on a hot summer’s day.
In the video, she said: “I don’t know about you guys, but I have not bought an ice cream from an ice cream van in a very long time. I think it was probably 1982, and they were about 10p or 20p each then.
“I asked for these two ice creams, and they were charging £4.00 for an ice cream. For two scoops of ice cream they were charging £4.00.”
She added: “I’m like ‘how much? Can you just wait and hang on while I go and get myself a loan?’ That is absolutely ridiculous. I was gobsmacked. I thought that is just pure greed.
“I know the cost of living has gone up, but for parents who have got four kids or something just to go to the park and have a simple day out – if they wanted an ice cream for the kids – it’s going to cost them £16.00. It’s just extortionate.”
Kimberley confessed she is aware of the ongoing cost of living crisis, but believes the prices have escalated excessively. She revealed that even sprinkles incurred an additional charge.
In the video, she acknowledged her frequent posts about the cost of living, expressing that it “makes her outraged.” Since sharing the video, numerous individuals have joined in to share their views.
One individual commented: “I couldn’t agree more. Well said lovely.” Another chimed in with: “£14.95 on Saturday for two kids tubs and two cones. What happened to £1.50 ice lollies and £2.00 cones?”
A third responded: “99 Flake used to be 99p.” Meanwhile, a fourth remarked: “We went to the beach last week, and it was one scoop for £4.00.”
According to Park Holidays, London ranks as the priciest city to purchase a Mr Whippy, with the average cost being £4.10 per ice cream cone, nearly double the price elsewhere in the country. Since the introduction of the Mr Whippy ice cream cone at 99p in 1958, prices have soared by 120% when compared to recent average costs in London.
Meanwhile, in Yorkshire and The Humber, a delightful ice cream can be enjoyed for an average price of £2.90. In Swansea, the typical cost is around £2.67 for a cone.
Interestingly, Edinburgh also proves to be quite pricey, with some vans charging as much as £4.00 for a single cone. On average, the cost of ice cream from a UK ice cream van can range anywhere from £1.50 to £3.50, depending on the type of ice cream and any extras you desire.
Soft-serve ice cream is typically the most affordable, while hard ice cream, organic or vegan options tend to carry a higher price tag. Toppings and sauces may also incur an additional charge.