Tesco shoppers are bracing themselves for a fresh increase in the cost of the supermarket’s iconic meal deal.
The popular lunchtime favourite, which has long been a staple for busy workers and students, is set to rise from £4 to £4.25 starting Thursday.
For Clubcard holders, the deal will increase from £3.60 to £3.85, keeping the discount for loyal customers but still sparking frustration.
Customers Voice Outrage Online
News of the price hike quickly spread after an insider shared a photo of the updated shelf labels online.
Social media users reacted with disbelief and frustration. One X (formerly Twitter) user wrote, “Tesco meal deal going up again… genuinely outrageous.
Game’s gone.” Another added, “Tesco meal deal price is going up again, what is this absolute nonsense.”
Clearly, the price bump has struck a nerve with shoppers who rely on the deal for their lunch on-the-go.
What’s Included in the Meal Deal
The Tesco meal deal includes a main, a snack, and a drink, offering more than 20 million possible combinations.
Shoppers can choose from options as varied as a classic Chicken Club Sandwich or the trendier Tesco Korean Style Chicken Dragon Rolls, along with popular snacks and drinks like Tesco Egg Protein Pots and Coca-Cola 500ml.
A History of Price Changes
This isn’t the first time the meal deal has seen a price increase.
Last year, it went from £3.90 to £4 for standard customers and £3.40 to £3.60 for Clubcard holders. Back in 2022, it saw its first increase in a decade.
Here’s a quick look at how prices have changed over time:
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2012: £3 (all customers)
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February 2022: £3 (Clubcard), £3.50 (without)
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October 2022: £3.40 (Clubcard), £3.90 (without)
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August 2024: £3.60 (Clubcard), £4 (without)
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August 2025: £3.85 (Clubcard), £4.25 (without)
The Tesco Meal Deal Legacy
Boots introduced the first supermarket meal deal back in 1985, and other retailers soon followed.
Tesco has built a competitive offering with something for nearly every taste.
A Tesco spokesperson defended the price, saying, “Our meal deal remains great value and the ideal way to grab lunch on-the-go at just £3.85 for a main, snack, and drink when bought with a Clubcard.”
The Nation’s Favourite Combos
Over the years, certain items have consistently topped the popularity charts.
Earlier this year, the Chicken Club Sandwich was revealed as the most popular main, paired often with the Tesco Egg Protein Pot and Coca-Cola 500ml.
Previous fan favourites included the Tesco Sausage Bacon & Egg Triple sandwich with McCoy’s Flame Grilled Steak Grab Bag Crisps and a 500ml Coke.
