Virtual reality headsets have been included for the first time in the basket of goods and services that the Office for National Statistics compiles to calculate inflation, the agency said on Tuesday.
The addition demonstrated Britons’ growing appetite for emerging technology, the ONS said, as it also removed adverts in local newspapers and in-store cafeteria meals from the basket.
High-profile additions to the list of goods and services were dominated by food products, such as pre-cooked pulled pork, smoked salmon and mango. Pre-cooked pork and gammon joints exited, as did DVD rental.
Yoga mats entered the basket, reflecting their increased popularity since the pandemic as consumers continued to exercise at home after lockdowns and head out to organised workout classes.
Also included were men’s slider
