## Milk Price Hike: Convenience Store Shopping Comes at a Cost
For many, a quick trip to the local shop for a bottle of milk is a familiar routine. But what if that convenience comes at a price? A recent analysis by consumer magazine Which? has revealed that shoppers frequenting smaller convenience stores like Tesco Express, Sainsbury’s Local, and Morrisons Daily are facing a significant price markup for everyday essentials, especially milk.
The investigation compared the cost of 42 common grocery items across larger supermarkets and their smaller convenience store equivalents. The findings showed a consistent 8% price increase for a two-pint bottle of own-brand semi-skimmed milk across all three supermarket chains’ smaller stores. This price hike is a substantial difference for budget-conscious shoppers who might be drawn to these smaller stores for their convenience.
It’s not just milk that’s affected. Other items, such as Philadelphia soft cheese, saw even more significant price discrepancies. Morrisons Daily charged 63% more than a regular Morrisons supermarket, while Tesco Express and Sainsbury’s Local charged 26% and 20% more, respectively, for the same product. In another stark example, Morrisons Daily sold their own-brand chickpeas at double the price compared to larger Morrisons supermarkets, costing £1 compared to 49p.
While convenience stores are convenient, they may not be the most budget-friendly option. Which? found that nearly one-fifth of convenience store shoppers rely on them because their nearest large supermarket is too far away. Many communities, particularly those with lower socio-economic profiles, lack access to larger supermarkets and face challenges with online delivery options, leading them to depend on convenience stores. It’s worth noting that 66% of households earning less than £21,000 per year shop at a convenience store at least once a week.
The supermarkets themselves have acknowledged the price disparity. Tesco explained that their Express stores are located in high-rent, high-operating cost areas, justifying the higher prices. Sainsbury’s also confirmed that their Local stores often incur higher operating costs due to their city and town centre locations. Morrisons emphasized their efforts to keep prices competitive while maintaining quality and availability across all their stores, even introducing a budget ‘Savers’ range in their convenience stores. They also highlighted their plans to expand the More Card discount program to their convenience stores in the future.
This investigation sheds light on a key issue faced by many shoppers: balancing convenience with affordability. While convenience stores offer a vital service, their higher pricing model can significantly impact the wallets of budget-conscious shoppers, particularly those who rely on them due to limited access to larger supermarkets. As consumers, it’s crucial to be aware of these price differences and consider all options before making a purchase.
