Iceland will offer shoppers free food this half term as over half (53%) of parents say they are already feeling the pressure of festive expenses.
As part of the new Famous Holiday Freebie offer, shoppers who spend over £20 in-store and swipe their Bonus Card from today can choose a free item from Iceland’s frozen ranges – including big brand names from Birds Eye to McCain.
Additional half-term support includes free kids activity passes, Christmas Bonus Card Scheme benefits and Iceland’s 8 for £10 promotion on big name brands.
Iceland sales data shows that products such as fish fingers and chicken dippers see an over 20% increase in sales around Mid-February (previous half term) and throughout July and August (summer term).
According to new research from the frozen food retailer, over a third (37%) will cut down on Halloween invites and 36% will avoid Bonfire Night all together due to mounting costs, whilst 51% of parents surveyed admit they’ll buy fewer Christmas presents compared to last year.
Additionally, over a third (39%) of the parents surveyed also find the mornings and evenings getting darker and pressure to buy takeaways whilst saving for upcoming seasonable events hard.
One in five (20%) agree spending more on electricity to heat the home and keep kids entertained is a challenge too.
Iceland recently cut the price of over 1,000 products as part of its commitment to invest £26m annually to support families during the cost-of-living crisis.
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Iceland Foods executive chairman, Richard Walker said: “While half-term is an exciting time for families when kids get a well-deserved break from school, we know it can also put additional pressure onto household budgets.
“That’s especially true in October, with Christmas wish lists now firmly on the horizon.
“Through our half-term offers, we’re committed to reducing the tough choices parents have to make at this time of year with our free teatime essential offers, Day out with the Kids Pass and other value deals.”
The news comes as last month, Iceland revealed that its loan scheme, named the Iceland Food Club, has helped over 23,000 families since it launched last year.
