October 28, 2026 — Walmart has set the price of its annual holiday meal basket at $3.50 per person, marking the lowest cost since the retailer introduced the program in 2022 as American shoppers continue to grapple with persistent inflation and economic uncertainty.
The retail giant announced on Wednesday that the meal basket, designed to feed 10 people, contains 26 items, including a Butterball turkey, mashed potatoes and gravy, cranberry sauce and pumpkin pie.
The new price represents a reduction from last year’s $4 per person, as Walmart and other retailers step up value-focused promotions to attract budget-conscious consumers ahead of the busy holiday shopping season.
Walmart Targets Cost-Conscious Shoppers
The lower-priced meal offering comes as consumers remain cautious about spending amid ongoing price pressures and uncertainty about the broader economy.
By reducing the cost of its holiday basket, Walmart is positioning itself to appeal to households seeking affordable options for seasonal gatherings. The program also reinforces the retailer’s emphasis on value as competition intensifies ahead of the end-of-year shopping period.
Holiday Shopping Season Drives Retail Competition
The U.S. holiday shopping season begins in November and includes Thanksgiving, Black Friday, Cyber Monday and Christmas. These events account for a significant share of retailers’ annual sales as consumers increase spending on food, gifts and other seasonal purchases.
Retailers typically introduce discounts and promotional offers during this period to attract shoppers and encourage purchases, particularly when household budgets are under pressure.
Walmart’s latest meal basket pricing forms part of that broader competition to win customers through affordability.
Walmart Maintains Focus on Sales Growth
In August, Walmart raised its annual sales and profit forecasts, saying aggressive price cuts would help stimulate demand later in the year.
The company’s holiday meal offer follows that strategy, using competitive pricing to attract shoppers while consumers remain selective about where they spend.
With the key holiday shopping period approaching, Walmart’s lower-cost meal basket highlights how retailers are adjusting their offers to meet demand for value amid persistent inflation and wider economic uncertainty.
Original article
Comments