77% OF SHOPPERS STRUGGLE TO MEET WEEKLY FOOD BILLS

Report finds single women are hit hardest | 87% make lifestyle change to battle rises

- SEAN MURPHY

THE increased cost of the weekly shop is now the heaviest burden faced by households, it is claimed.

Around 77% of consumers identified it as the cost-of-living consequence that has impacted hit them most.

Single women suffer most, according to the new research which has also highlighted the curbs people have introduced to cope.

Their adjustments include eating out less, buying more own brands and reducing savings to combat rising costs.

The lifestyle downsizing measures were uncovered in consumer polls by Aviva Life and Pensions Ireland.

After the weekly grocery shop, other financial stresses included energy bills, products and services, transport costs, and mortgage and rent payments.