VIRTUAL reality headsets and yoga mats are the latest items to be added to the UK’s shopping list.
The Office for National Statistics annually updates its “basket of goods” of more than 700 products and services we spend our cash on.
A dramatic change in entertainment consumption this year sees VR sets in and DVD rentals out.
Yoga mats were also added after continuing to be popular following home workouts during the pandemic, the ONS said.
The basket of goods is used to measure the UK’s rate of inflation and reflect changing tastes.
Other entries were ready-to-use noodles and pre-cooked pulled pork — replacing gammon joints.
In fashion, men’s sliders were listed to show “a rapidly growing and previously unrepresented area of the footwear market”.
High street shop closures led to the ONS dropping “in-store cafeteria meals”, popular with shoppers visiting department stores.
Instead, people are more likely to visit casual dining venues, like Pizza Express and Nando’s.
Stephen Burgess, deputy director for prices at ONS, said: “Our inflation basket of goods shows how consumer spending has evolved over the years.
“The desire for convenience amid our busy lifestyles plays a part in this year’s basket changes.
“Consumers are choosing easier options in the kitchen, so oven-ready gammon joints make way for quicker choices.
[bc_video account_id=”5067014667001″ application_id=”” aspect_ratio=”16:9″ autoplay=”” caption=”How to find the best bargains at the supermarket” embed=”in-page” experience_id=”” height=”100%” language_detection=”” max_height=”360px” max_width=”640px” min_width=”0px” mute=”” padding_top=”56%” picture_in_picture=”” player_id=”default” playlist_id=”” playsinline=”” sizing=”responsive” video_id=”6347316490112″ video_ids=”” width=”640px”]“Men’s slider sandals step into the basket as a rapidly growing part of the male footwear market, while yoga mats are a new addition due to their increased popularity since the pandemic.”
