The prestigious Wimbledon Championship, the oldest tennis tournament in the world, is currently in full swing. As the world's top tennis players compete for glory on the grass courts of the All England Club, fans and spectators are indulging in the quintessential Wimbledon experience. With around 800 players, 679 matches, and over half a million spectators expected to attend, this year's championship promises to be a grand spectacle that captivates fans around the globe. The tournament, which commenced on June 26th, is set to conclude on Sunday, July 16th.
While tennis enthusiasts eagerly follow the thrilling matches, another traditional aspect of Wimbledon that has garnered attention is the consumption of strawberries and cream. Every year, spectators at the Championships collectively spend approximately £500,000 on this classic British treat. Close to 200,000 portions of strawberries and cream are sold during the tournament, priced at £2.50 per portion.
One interesting aspect of this delightful tradition is the fact that the price of a portion of strawberries and cream has remained unchanged since 2010. In a world where inflation has affected numerous goods and services, Wimbledon has managed to maintain the same price for this iconic dish over more than a decade. While it may seem like a small detail, it highlights the commitment to tradition that permeates the championship.
In contrast to the stable price of strawberries and cream, the average price of a property in the UK has experienced a significant increase during the same period. Since 2010, property prices have surged by a staggering 54%, in Crawley this has been a massive 67.7%. Back in 2010, the average price of a property in the UK stood at just over £171,000. At that time, only one in every 20 properties sold for over £500,000.
However, in the past year, the landscape of the property market has transformed dramatically. More than one in every six properties sold has now exceeded the £500,000 mark. This statistic, drawn from Dataloft, Wimbledon, Nationwide, and Land Registry data based on sales recorded in 2010 and the year leading up to the end of May 2023, reveals the substantial inflation that has taken hold in the property market.
The contrasting trajectories of the price of strawberries and cream at Wimbledon and property prices in the UK underscore the broader economic changes that have transpired over the past decade. While some sectors have witnessed significant inflation, others have managed to maintain stable prices, preserving cherished traditions and experiences.
As fans continue to flock to the All England Club to witness thrilling tennis matches and savour the iconic combination of strawberries and cream, they can appreciate the consistency and nostalgia associated with this culinary delight. Amidst a changing world, where prices fluctuate and economic dynamics evolve, the Wimbledon Championship remains a steadfast institution, offering a blend of tradition and sporting excellence that has captivated audiences for over a century.
