How Much Is a Mars Bar

The Mars bar has earned its place as one of the most iconic chocolate bars ever created. A comforting combination of soft nougat, rich caramel and smooth milk chocolate, it has been a British favourite for generations. Whether enjoyed as a pocket-money treat, picked up in a meal deal or nibbled with a cuppa during a lunch break, the Mars bar is a reliable go-to snack. But with rising food prices and changes across the confectionery market, how much is a Mars bar today? The answer is not quite as simple as it used to be. Let us unwrap the factors behind the price of a Mars bar in today’s shops.

The Average Price of a Mars Bar in the UK

As of 2025, the price of a standard 51g Mars bar in the UK tends to fall between 70p and £1 depending on where you buy it. In supermarkets, particularly when bought as part of a multipack, the price per bar is usually lower. A five-pack might cost around £2.50, which works out at roughly 50p per bar. However, if you grab a single Mars bar from a petrol station, newsagent or vending machine, you can easily pay close to or even above the £1 mark. Location, retailer and packaging all influence the final cost at the till.

Why Prices Vary So Widely

The price of a Mars bar is not fixed across the board. Independent retailers often charge more than supermarkets, due to higher overheads and smaller order volumes. Convenience stores, railway kiosks and cinemas also tend to charge premium prices for all types of snacks, including chocolate. Supermarkets have the advantage of offering discounts or promotions, especially on multipacks or as part of meal deals. While you might save money per bar in a supermarket, you are also more likely to buy in bulk.

The Impact of Shrinkflation

Shrinkflation is another important factor to consider. Over the past decade, chocolate bars have gradually reduced in size while prices have either stayed the same or increased. The Mars bar is no exception. What used to be a 58g bar is now around 51g in many UK retailers, and even smaller in certain formats. Consumers might not immediately notice the change, but the amount you get for your money has subtly shifted. So while the price tag might look familiar, the value you receive has slightly decreased.

Multipacks and Better Value Options

If you are a regular Mars bar eater or stocking up for a party, multipacks offer the best value. These usually contain smaller bars, often around 39g each, but they bring the price per unit down considerably. Supermarket deals and own-brand loyalty promotions can push this down even further. For budget-conscious shoppers, the multipack route is by far the most economical way to enjoy a Mars bar, even if the bar itself is a little smaller than the standard shop-bought version.

Is the Mars Bar Still Worth It?

Even with changing prices and slight reductions in size, the Mars bar still delivers on taste, texture and nostalgia. It continues to be a popular choice among British consumers, appealing to those who enjoy classic flavour combinations in their confectionery. Many people still consider it good value when compared with newer or more elaborate chocolate products. Its widespread availability and reliable taste mean it remains a staple of the UK chocolate scene.

Final Thoughts

So how much is a Mars bar? The price ranges from about 50p to £1 depending on where and how you buy it. Multipacks offer the best value, while individual bars bought at convenience stores may cost a little more. The price has crept up over the years, and the bar itself has slimmed down in size, but it remains one of the most recognisable and satisfying chocolate bars in Britain. Whether bought for a quick snack or as part of a weekly shop, the Mars bar continues to hold its place as a beloved treat with a price that reflects its iconic status in the confectionery world.