Target and Walmart are offering dueling “inflation-free” Thanksgiving meals

A month before Turkey Day, Walmart, Target and grocery chains are already offering Thanksgiving groceries and supplies.

Earlier this month, Walmart boasted that its “inflation-free” turkey and sides will be cheaper than last year: turkeys start at 88 cents a pound and dinner costs less than $7 per person.

On Monday, Target made a similar offer, with a Thanksgiving meal for four worth $20 less than last year and a turkey priced at 79 cents per pound – 20% less than last year.

Both retailers are ensuring food prices remain a key issue after next week's election to boost sales and build or maintain reputations for value.

“In this environment, the constant drumbeat is the customer looking for value,” said Edward Jones analyst Brian Yarbrough. “They drive traffic by telling consumers, 'We know.'”

Target and Walmart are engaged in a price war that has led to price cuts on thousands of items this year as supply chains calm, production costs fall and suppliers become more willing to offer deals to boost volumes.

Prices in Turkey have also fallen dramatically compared to last year, in part because flocks have recovered from the bird flu epidemic and consumer demand has fallen after years of higher prices.

Although many shoppers are still buying Halloween candy, Target and Walmart are setting the table early.