Beef to challenge turkey this Christmas: Waitrose

Beef is challenging turkey for the top spot on the nation’s Christmas dinner plates, according to posh retailer Waitrose.

The meat is proving the most popular alternative to turkey, as nearly a quarter (23%) of Waitrose shoppers pledged to try beef instead of turkey this Christmas.

Pre-packed beef sales

Overall, pre-packed beef sales rose by 9% last week, with orders up by nearly a half (49%). The most popular cuts of beef sellers included bone in shin, sales of which increased by 233%.

Seasonal meats, such as gammons and hams are also said to be trading strongly, with orders up by 133%.

But “turkey still holds the crown as the nation’s favourite for the Christmas table”, said David Jones, the retailer’s supply chain director. Turkey crown sales climbed by 14% last week.

Total sales, excluding petrol, rose by 4.9% compared with the same week of last year.

Sales through Waitrose.com were said to be up by 34%.