Coles snack price skyrockets! Prepare for sticker shock!
We have seen many changes throughout our lives, with technology revolutionising the way we live and communicate. But one thing that never fails to shock us is the constant rise in the cost of living, particularly when it comes to grocery shopping.
Recently, a Coles customer highlighted the impact of inflation on household budgets, especially on one popular snack we all love to nibble on— chips.
The shopper took to social media, sharing a photo of Red Rock Deli chips on 'special’, priced at two for $10.
'What a deal,' the customer sarcastically remarked, noting the significant hike in price compared to just a few years ago.
Fellow shoppers and SDC members might recall the days when a bag could be bought for as little as $3. Sadly, those times are long gone, with the price of these premium chips steadily climbing year after year.
Although some Reddit users pointed out that Red Rock Deli chips are typically more expensive than regular chips, the conversation quickly turned to Coles' competitor, ALDI, where one can find good-quality snacks at a more affordable price point.
In 2020, an old Coles catalogue shows Red Rock Deli chips at $4.65 ($2.32 on special), while CC's and Thins were going for an average of $3.50 each, sometimes available in a two-for $5 special.
Today, Red Rock Deli chips are priced around $6.30 without any discounts, while Natural Chip Co bags are $4.70 ($2.35 on special), and a 170g bag of Smith’s chips cost $4.80, a sharp rise in comparison.
A fellow Redditor chimed in, 'This is why I shop at ALDI. I got almost 2kg of marinated chicken on special yesterday for $7.50 and practically danced out of the shop,' highlighting the ongoing challenge for many Australians trying to keep their weekly grocery expenses in check.
These alarming statistics are backed by a recent UBS report, revealing that food and grocery prices at Coles and Woolworths (Australia's largest supermarket) had risen by nearly 10% in the past year. Heartbreakingly, the cost of dry goods increased by 9.4%, while fresh food prices jumped 9.9% in 12 months.
Both Coles and Woolworths disputed the report, stating that the investment bank used differing methods to measure inflation. However, they still dominate around 70% of Australia's grocery market, with ALDI claiming an 11% share, further creating a case for patronising budget-friendly alternatives.
A recent consumer survey also indicates that certain items have become more expensive, with some brands no longer being the cheapest or best value for money. This has shifted consumer spending habits and led to a higher demand for products the supermarkets deem as ‘premium’, says an industry expert.
These are just some of the reasons behind the soaring prices of food. Now, with 66% of households experiencing increased financial pressures, consumers are being forced to find ways to stretch their money in order to make ends meet. The key is to know your budget, shop around for the best specials, and embrace cheaper alternatives where possible.
As we all strive to stretch our spending, it's essential to keep an eye out for special deals and discounts. After all, retirement should be spent enjoying—not worrying about the cost of our favourite snacks.
In our efforts to manage our expenses wisely, how do you personally find and take advantage of deals and discounts? Share your tips and tricks for saving money and enjoying your retirement without worrying about the cost of your favourite snacks.
Recently, a Coles customer highlighted the impact of inflation on household budgets, especially on one popular snack we all love to nibble on— chips.
The shopper took to social media, sharing a photo of Red Rock Deli chips on 'special’, priced at two for $10.
'What a deal,' the customer sarcastically remarked, noting the significant hike in price compared to just a few years ago.
Fellow shoppers and SDC members might recall the days when a bag could be bought for as little as $3. Sadly, those times are long gone, with the price of these premium chips steadily climbing year after year.
Although some Reddit users pointed out that Red Rock Deli chips are typically more expensive than regular chips, the conversation quickly turned to Coles' competitor, ALDI, where one can find good-quality snacks at a more affordable price point.
In 2020, an old Coles catalogue shows Red Rock Deli chips at $4.65 ($2.32 on special), while CC's and Thins were going for an average of $3.50 each, sometimes available in a two-for $5 special.
Today, Red Rock Deli chips are priced around $6.30 without any discounts, while Natural Chip Co bags are $4.70 ($2.35 on special), and a 170g bag of Smith’s chips cost $4.80, a sharp rise in comparison.
A fellow Redditor chimed in, 'This is why I shop at ALDI. I got almost 2kg of marinated chicken on special yesterday for $7.50 and practically danced out of the shop,' highlighting the ongoing challenge for many Australians trying to keep their weekly grocery expenses in check.
These alarming statistics are backed by a recent UBS report, revealing that food and grocery prices at Coles and Woolworths (Australia's largest supermarket) had risen by nearly 10% in the past year. Heartbreakingly, the cost of dry goods increased by 9.4%, while fresh food prices jumped 9.9% in 12 months.
Both Coles and Woolworths disputed the report, stating that the investment bank used differing methods to measure inflation. However, they still dominate around 70% of Australia's grocery market, with ALDI claiming an 11% share, further creating a case for patronising budget-friendly alternatives.
Rising Food Prices Place Pressure on Household Budgets
Experts cite a number of reasons behind the rising food prices in Australia. For one, the coronavirus pandemic has resulted in increased transport costs and delays in shipment of goods. As well as disruption of global supply chains, which in turn, affects prices in the local market. Furthermore, a reducing Aussie dollar has made importing goods more expensive, contributing to the price surge.A recent consumer survey also indicates that certain items have become more expensive, with some brands no longer being the cheapest or best value for money. This has shifted consumer spending habits and led to a higher demand for products the supermarkets deem as ‘premium’, says an industry expert.
These are just some of the reasons behind the soaring prices of food. Now, with 66% of households experiencing increased financial pressures, consumers are being forced to find ways to stretch their money in order to make ends meet. The key is to know your budget, shop around for the best specials, and embrace cheaper alternatives where possible.
Key Takeaways
- A Coles customer shared a photo on social media showing the rising price of chips, highlighting the effect of inflation on food prices.
- Many users chimed in with their own concerns about the soaring prices and suggested alternatives such as shopping at ALDI.
- UBS reported that food and grocery prices at Coles and Woolworths had gone up by nearly 10% in the past year.
- Coles and Woolworths hold about 70% of the country's grocery market, while ALDI has an 11% share.
As we all strive to stretch our spending, it's essential to keep an eye out for special deals and discounts. After all, retirement should be spent enjoying—not worrying about the cost of our favourite snacks.
In our efforts to manage our expenses wisely, how do you personally find and take advantage of deals and discounts? Share your tips and tricks for saving money and enjoying your retirement without worrying about the cost of your favourite snacks.