Cadbury has confirmed it has shrunk down two of its most popular products in a move described as a “last resort”.
Heroes and Roses tubs, popular with buyers particularly at Christmas time, have been reduced in size after “careful consideration” from the business.
The move comes after Cadbury says it has experienced “significantly higher input costs across our supply chain”.
But it will be a blow to shoppers, as the price of the tubs remains the same.
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Cadbury confirms it has shrunk Heroes and Roses tubs
Both Heroes and Roses tubs now weigh 475g, which is 14% less than last year’s 550g versions.
It will mean about seven fewer chocolates per tub, with options including Dairy Milk, Twirl and Fudge in Heroes and Hazel Whirl and Creamy Orange in Roses.
Despite the shrinkage, prices remain the same, which are typically about £4.50.
A spokesperson for Cadbury confirmed the change to Newsquest.
A statement reads: “We understand the economic pressures that consumers continue to face and raising prices is a last resort for our business.
“However, as a food producer, we are continuing to experience significantly higher input costs across our supply chain.
“This means that our products continue to be much more expensive to make and while we have absorbed these costs where possible, we still face considerable challenges.
“As a result, we made the carefully considered decision to reduce the weight of our Cadbury Heroes and Roses tubs (475g), so that we can continue to provide consumers with the brands they love, without compromising on the great taste and quality they expect.”
Cadbury’s Heroes and Roses tubs are among the popular options during festive periods (Image: Newsquest)
Reacting to the news, one shopper said: “Won’t buy anymore.
“Shrinkflation is unacceptable and trying to recycle those plastic tubs responsibly is a problem.”
Another, however, had a different view, saying: “Dont care will still [buy] them at Christmas!”
Cadbury to launch new twist on classic Dairy Milk bars
In other Cadbury news, the business has recently rolled out three new Dairy Milk bars designed for on-the-go snacking.
The Cadbury Dairy Milk Grab & Go bars will be available from July, offering consumers a resealable 56g option in three flavours: Dairy Milk, Dairy Milk Marvellous Creations, and Dairy Milk Chopped Fruit & Nut.
Intended for portability, the bars are designed to be portioned and enjoyed throughout the day rather than eaten all at once.
Phoebe Morris, junior brand manager at Cadbury’s parent company Mondelez International, said: “We’re seeing a clear shift in consumer behaviour, particularly among younger shoppers, towards more frequent, on-the-go snacking throughout the day.
“Shoppers are looking for options that fit seamlessly into their routines, creating a strong opportunity for formats that deliver convenience without compromising on taste.”
Phoebe added: “Our Grab & Go bars bring the trusted Cadbury Dairy Milk chunk taste into a format designed specifically for these high-frequency snacking moments.”
The Grab & Go range follows another recent launch from Cadbury aimed at younger consumers.
Earlier this month, the confectionery giant introduced the limited-edition Dairy Milk Strawberries & Creme Frappe bar, inspired by chilled summer drinks.
The bar combines classic Dairy Milk chocolate with a strawberries-and-cream-frappe-inspired filling and is designed to be eaten chilled.
What’s your favourite Cadbury bar? Tell us in the comments below.