Optimism Amidst Turkey Prices Surge This Thanksgiving Season

Tue Nov 25 2025 20:39:47 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

As Thanksgiving approaches, turkey prices are expected to rise significantly due to an avian flu outbreak that has decimated flocks across the U.S. However, some local farms, such as Old Brick Farm in Michigan, remain unaffected and are preparing for the holiday.

Old Brick Farm in Chelsea, Michigan, stands out this Thanksgiving season by avoiding the impacts of bird flu and avian metapneumovirus, which have reduced turkey availability nationwide. The farm's owner, Larry Doll, emphasizes cleanliness and careful operations as critical to their success. Despite these local successes, the U.S. is experiencing a significant turkey shortage, leading to anticipated price increases of up to 44%. Various strategies are being employed by grocery chains to maintain customer engagement during this price surge.

CHELSEA, Mich. (AP) — As Thanksgiving approaches, Old Brick Farm, where Larry Doll raises chickens, turkeys, and ducks, has seen some fortunate circumstances. Located west of Detroit, the farm faced no cases of bird flu despite a national outbreak leading to over 2 million turkeys lost in the past three months alone. Alongside avoiding the bird flu, the farm also dodged avian metapneumovirus, a disease causing reduced egg production in turkeys.

“I try to keep the operation as clean as possible, and not bringing other animals in from other farms helps mitigate that risk as well,” Doll stated, proud of his family-operated farm that has been around for five generations.

However, the broader market remains affected, as such diseases have caused a decline in U.S. turkey populations to a 40-year low. Consequently, the hatchery that Doll partners with has seen a shortage in available turkey chicks. He plans to place an order for another 100 hatchlings, although they won't arrive until July. “If you don’t get your order in early, you’re not going to get it,” he added.

Impact Across the Country

The U.S. Department of Agriculture predicts a 44% increase in wholesale turkey prices this year due to the ongoing supply crunch. Despite these rising costs, many grocery stores are countering by offering deals, including discounted or even free turkeys to help lessen the impact on family budgets for holiday meals.

As of mid-November, the cost of a basket of Thanksgiving staples has increased by 4.1% compared to last year, with potential surges in prices attributed to tariffs on imported goods and elevated costs for key ingredients. While retailers strive to offer competitive prices, consumers might find other meal staples less affordable.

Promotional Offers in Grocery Stores

In response to rising turkey prices, grocery chains are implementing promotions to attract shoppers. Discount grocer Aldi is advertising a $40 meal package for 10, while Kroger has provisions for under $50 utilizing their store-brand products.

President Donald Trump also discussed Walmart's Thanksgiving meal basket, noting a reported 25% reduction in cost compared to last year. However, this decrease stems from a different product selection overall.

Looking Forward

Doll’s farm, steeped in tradition, remains committed to delivering quality turkey for the Thanksgiving feast. He takes pride in providing a key component of many families' holiday celebrations, feeling a deep satisfaction from being part of such special moments.