Marmite maker Unilever is increasing its prices in a fresh blow from Britain’s spiralling supply chain crisis.
The consumer goods titan – which also churns out Pot Noodle, Cornetto, Dove and Hellman’s mayonnaise – has increased the cost of its products by 4.1%.
Warning Brit shoppers may face even more price rises, Unilever’s Graeme Pitkethly said: "We expect inflation could be higher next year."
The price hike is the highest imposed by the business since 2012.
It is blaming "unprecedented cost inflation" sparked by soaring prices for raw materials for packing, and rising energy rates.
There’s also crippling transport costs due to the trucker shortage.
Dan Lane, of finance firm Freetrade, said: "The prices of raw materials, packaging and distribution are soaring and there’s only so much of that extra cost it can add to a tub of Marmite before consumers skip the spread altogether."
Along with Marmite – famed for its "You Either Love It Or Hate It" ad slogan – London-based Unilever make staples including Jif, Bovril and PG Tips teabags.
In April the Daily Star reported Marmite was the latest victim of food shortages as the divisive spread has disappeared off supermarket shelves during lockdown.
A key ingredient is brewer's yeast which became scarce when Britain's pubs shut as much less beer was being made.
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Marmite producers Unilever suspended all production other than its small 250g jars which have been flying off the shelves.
But the UK's pub closure dragged on longer than expected – with the knock-on effect that supplies of the legendary toast-topper dwindled.
Manufacturers said while supplies have been hit demand has soared with stay-at-home diners desperate to get hold of the spread.
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