Ice cream-mad Brits are set to splash out more than £8,700 on frozen delights throughout their lifetime. A survey revealed that over 3,000 supermarket portions will be devoured during that time, whilst more than 2,300 treats will be purchased from traditional ice cream vans.
Gen Z emerged as the generation most likely to indulge, with nearly 12,300 frozen treats predicted on average. However, the price of Britain’s beloved summer staple has soared dramatically, putting many ice-cream loving Brits off. Almost one-fifth of consumers are now paying over £7 for a single portion, and the typical ice cream van cone costing punters £4.60.
The study was commissioned by Asda, which launched a special one-day Asda Price Cream Van pop-up along Brighton Promenade, dishing out complimentary vanilla scoops to seaside visitors in honour of its 60th milestone.
Lucky beach-goers who spotted the exclusive van could claim the nation’s top ice cream choice using a special ’60p’ voucher.
For those unfortunate enough to miss the van, there’s no need for disappointment as the retailer has slashed prices on its two-litre vanilla ice cream containers to just 60p this weekend.
To avoid the hefty costs of ice cream vans the survey suggests parents are becoming increasingly inventive to keep their kids away.
While 12 per cent mysteriously ‘misplace’ their purse at crucial moments. Some parents have resorted to telling their children that the familiar jingle of the ice cream van signifies they’ve run out of ice cream.
Given that the traditional ’99’ cone now costs an average of £4.60, it’s hardly surprising that families are having second thoughts.
A spokesperson from the supermarket, which has also brought back its Price Promise to customers, said: “Summer wouldn’t be summer without ice cream – but we know the cost can add up fast, particularly during the holiday season.
“That’s why, to continue our 60th birthday celebrations and further mark the return of Asda Price, we’re making this simple pleasure accessible to all.”
Despite the price, 33 per cent believe that enjoying an ice cream on the beach is a wonderful experience, even if it’s costly. However, 28 per cent no longer consider a 99 good value for money.
When it comes to favourite flavours, vanilla takes the top spot, followed by chocolate and mint chocolate chip, with strawberry in fourth place.