Sainsbury’s has quietly hiked the price of its meal deal, which offers a main meal item, side and drink from £3.75 to £3.95.

The supermarket retailer raised its prices across its stores earlier this week, leaving some customers frustrated. The move marks the second price hike in under a year, with the price being increased by 25p in July 2024 from £3.50 to £3.75.

However, its premium meal deal has remained priced at £5 since its initial launch in 2022.

A Sainsbury’s spokesperson said to the Grocer: “Sainsbury’s continued to offer one of the best value meal deals around. We’ve also recently introduced a range of new products just in time for summer, including our bestselling Picnic Triple Sandwich and build-your-own salad options.

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“This means anyone who shops with us can choose from an affordable selection of over 150 mains, 300 snacks and 400 drinks.”

The reason behind the price increase was not disclosed; however, the supermarket chain has been expanding its assortment of food-to-go products as part of its strategy to drive more sales.

Sainsbury’s new prices are higher compared to its supermarket rivals, with Tesco delivering a £3.60 meal deal for Clubcard members. Meanwhile, Morrisons meal deal for its membership card holders costs £3.60.

However, Sainsbury’s has been launching initiatives to try to compete amid the price wars, previously introducing a summer price match range for discounter Aldi.

The mounting fear of inflation is leading to Brits scaling back on purchases, a recent report from the Food and Drink Federation (FDF) revealed, adding more pressure for retailers.