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%.