British consumers are paying sharply more for Easter chocolate – even as global cocoa prices retreat from historic highs. New analysis from the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit (ECIU) shows that the average price of popular UK Easter chocolates has risen by roughly two-thirds over the past three years, with some products more than doubling in cost.
At the product level, the increases are striking: Galaxy Easter eggs are up 105% per 100g since 2023, Cadbury Creme Eggs have risen 81%, and Lindt’s Gold Bunny now costs £8.42 – up 77% over the same period. Five packs of Creme Eggs have climbed 74%. Across the European Union, the trend is similarly acute: chocolate prices rose 18% in 2025 alone, far outpacing overall consumer price inflation of 2.5% (Euronews; ECIU).
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The Lag Effect: Why Prices Aren’t Falling
The disconnect between falling cocoa futures and rising retail prices comes down to timing. Confectionery manufacturers typically purchase cocoa months in advance and hedge their exposure to price volatility. Much of the chocolate currently on shelves – including seasonal Easter products – was produced when cocoa prices were near record highs.