UK inflation basket grows to include virtual reality headsets

In March 2025, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) in the UK made significant updates to the basket of goods and services that it tracks to calculate inflation. This update included the first-time addition of virtual reality headsets, reflecting a shift in consumer preferences and the growing interest in emerging technologies. The agency noted that this reflects a rising appetite among Britons for new tech products, suggesting a significant change in spending habits. Alongside the inclusion of VR headsets, the ONS removed certain items that had been part of the basket in previous years. Notably, DVD rentals have been taken out, highlighting the decline of physical media consumption in the face of digital streaming services that have become far more dominant. Additionally, advertisements in local newspapers and in-store cafeteria meals were also removed, indicating a broader shift in advertising practices and consumer dining habits. The update also saw various food products being added, including pre-cooked pulled pork, smoked salmon, and mangoes, demonstrating how changing consumer preferences in the food sector continue to impact the inflation calculation. Items that had previously been staples, such as pre-cooked pork and gammon joints, were removed, reflecting evolving dietary trends. Other items that were included in this year's updates were yoga mats, which experienced a surge in popularity during and after the pandemic as people began to exercise at home and join organized classes. These changes provide insights into the economic landscape of Britain, illustrating how inflation measurements must adapt to emerging consumer trends and technological advancements. As the ONS continues to track 750 different goods and services, these adjustments serve to ensure that the measurement of inflation remains relevant in a rapidly changing economy.