As savvy shoppers, we are always looking for the best prices when it comes to grocery shopping, even more so given the rising cost of living.

Many of us may have assumed that major supermarkets like Woolworths or Coles are the smartest choice for our grocery needs. However, a recent survey conducted by Guardian Australia suggests that this may not be the case.

The survey, which looked at 61 different stores, revealed that major supermarkets are rarely the cheapest option when it comes to essential fruits and vegetables.

So, despite our instincts, we might not be getting the best value for our money by shopping at these well-known supermarkets.

Major supermarkets are almost never the cheapest option for essential fruit and vegetables, a survey revealed. Credit: Pixabay/congerdesign.

Ten Guardian reporters visited local independent and Asian grocers, as well as the two major chains, across Sydney, Melbourne, Townsville and Kyneton in July and compared prices on a selection of basics such as apples, bok choy, eggplants, pears, potatoes, sweet potatoes and zucchinis.

It turns out that independent and Asian grocers were routinely cheaper than Woolworths and Coles, despite the common perception that they are usually the most expensive option when it comes to affordable groceries.

Don Linke, who manages many fresh food markets around Victoria, said the survey's results showed how the supermarkets had 'exploited' consumers during this period of cost-of-living crisis.

'When they say they're going to “lock prices down”, “We're looking after you”, “We've got the lowest prices”, it's sloganeering that is at odds with reality,' he said.

One compelling piece of evidence supporting the survey's findings was the significant price difference found in Harris Farm's 'imperfects' range, which offers produce that might not look as appealing in terms of size or shape. This range was notably cheaper than similar products offered by the major supermarkets.

While some independent and Asian grocers showed minor price fluctuations, with some items being cheaper and others slightly more expensive than those in major supermarket chains, the overall trend suggested that major supermarkets seldom offered the lowest prices.

For instance, the survey revealed that granny smith apples were $1.24 and $1.94 cheaper at Asian grocers and Harris Farm imperfects, respectively, compared to major supermarkets.

Similarly, a bunch of bok choy was 88 cents cheaper at Asian grocers, while eggplants showed a remarkable price difference, being $3.64 and $4.88 cheaper than the major supermarket chains.

When it came to sweet potatoes, they were $1.51 cheaper at Asian grocers and $2 cheaper at Harris Farm, while zucchinis were priced at $1.76 per kilo less in the imperfects range.

The survey demonstrated that shopping at independent and Asian grocers or choosing imperfect produce at places like Harris Farm could result in substantial savings without compromising on the quality of the food.

A spokesperson for the Queensland Consumers Association, Ian Jarratt, said that while the survey's results weren't necessarily surprising, it did demonstrate that consumers need to take an active approach to ensure they are getting the best bang for their buck.

'Consumers can't just sit back and assume they're going to be the best price here or the best price there because it doesn't work like that. The system we have means consumers have got to play their part and be active, to shop around and compare values,' he said.

Further evidence of how these major supermarkets handle prices came from a Woolworths spokesperson who said the supermarket giant works 'hard to balance competitive value for customers and fair prices for farmers'.

Nevertheless, one thing's for sure: it pays to investigate every option available if you want to be sure you're getting the best value for your hard-earned money.

Key Takeaways

• A survey conducted by the Guardian Australia of prices at 61 retailers concluded that major supermarkets are almost never the cheapest option for essential fruit and vegetables.
• The survey included the prices of various fruits and vegetables recorded from multiple supermarkets and local grocers across Sydney, Melbourne, Townsville (Queensland) and Kyneton (Victoria).
• Imperfect produce, which is sold for much cheaper due to its less appealing looks, suggests that aesthetic standards also play a significant role in the higher prices of supermarket produce.
• A spokesperson for the Queensland Consumers Association emphasised the need for consumers to be proactive in shopping and comparing values, highlighting the importance of competition in the supermarket industry for customer value.

Members, the next time you go grocery shopping, why not venture off the beaten track and check out the apples, bok choy, eggplants, pears, potatoes, sweet potatoes and zucchinis at your local independent and Asian stores? You may be surprised by the bargains you find!

What are your thoughts on the survey? Do you agree with the results? Feel free to leave a comment or two in the section below!

 

[Suzanne rose]

I know in Sydney my Asian stores are much cheaper than Coles and woolworths.

Better yet if you can try growing vegetables even it pots

 

[Valentino]

As savvy shoppers, we are always looking for the best prices when it comes to grocery shopping, even more so given the rising cost of living.

Many of us may have assumed that major supermarkets like Woolworths or Coles are the smartest choice for our grocery needs. However, a recent survey conducted by Guardian Australia suggests that this may not be the case.

The survey, which looked at 61 different stores, revealed that major supermarkets are rarely the cheapest option when it comes to essential fruits and vegetables.

So, despite our instincts, we might not be getting the best value for our money by shopping at these well-known supermarkets.

View attachment 26411

Major supermarkets are almost never the cheapest option for essential fruit and vegetables, a survey revealed. Credit: Pixabay/congerdesign.

Ten Guardian reporters visited local independent and Asian grocers, as well as the two major chains, across Sydney, Melbourne, Townsville and Kyneton in July and compared prices on a selection of basics such as apples, bok choy, eggplants, pears, potatoes, sweet potatoes and zucchinis.

It turns out that independent and Asian grocers were routinely cheaper than Woolworths and Coles, despite the common perception that they are usually the most expensive option when it comes to affordable groceries.

Don Linke, who manages many fresh food markets around Victoria, said the survey's results showed how the supermarkets had 'exploited' consumers during this period of cost-of-living crisis.

'When they say they're going to “lock prices down”, “We're looking after you”, “We've got the lowest prices”, it's sloganeering that is at odds with reality,' he said.

One compelling piece of evidence supporting the survey's findings was the significant price difference found in Harris Farm's 'imperfects' range, which offers produce that might not look as appealing in terms of size or shape. This range was notably cheaper than similar products offered by the major supermarkets.

While some independent and Asian grocers showed minor price fluctuations, with some items being cheaper and others slightly more expensive than those in major supermarket chains, the overall trend suggested that major supermarkets seldom offered the lowest prices.

For instance, the survey revealed that granny smith apples were $1.24 and $1.94 cheaper at Asian grocers and Harris Farm imperfects, respectively, compared to major supermarkets.

Similarly, a bunch of bok choy was 88 cents cheaper at Asian grocers, while eggplants showed a remarkable price difference, being $3.64 and $4.88 cheaper than the major supermarket chains.

When it came to sweet potatoes, they were $1.51 cheaper at Asian grocers and $2 cheaper at Harris Farm, while zucchinis were priced at $1.76 per kilo less in the imperfects range.

The survey demonstrated that shopping at independent and Asian grocers or choosing imperfect produce at places like Harris Farm could result in substantial savings without compromising on the quality of the food.

A spokesperson for the Queensland Consumers Association, Ian Jarratt, said that while the survey's results weren't necessarily surprising, it did demonstrate that consumers need to take an active approach to ensure they are getting the best bang for their buck.

'Consumers can't just sit back and assume they're going to be the best price here or the best price there because it doesn't work like that. The system we have means consumers have got to play their part and be active, to shop around and compare values,' he said.

Further evidence of how these major supermarkets handle prices came from a Woolworths spokesperson who said the supermarket giant works 'hard to balance competitive value for customers and fair prices for farmers'.

Nevertheless, one thing's for sure: it pays to investigate every option available if you want to be sure you're getting the best value for your hard-earned money.

Key Takeaways

• A survey conducted by the Guardian Australia of prices at 61 retailers concluded that major supermarkets are almost never the cheapest option for essential fruit and vegetables.
• The survey included the prices of various fruits and vegetables recorded from multiple supermarkets and local grocers across Sydney, Melbourne, Townsville (Queensland) and Kyneton (Victoria).
• Imperfect produce, which is sold for much cheaper due to its less appealing looks, suggests that aesthetic standards also play a significant role in the higher prices of supermarket produce.
• A spokesperson for the Queensland Consumers Association emphasised the need for consumers to be proactive in shopping and comparing values, highlighting the importance of competition in the supermarket industry for customer value.

Members, the next time you go grocery shopping, why not venture off the beaten track and check out the apples, bok choy, eggplants, pears, potatoes, sweet potatoes and zucchinis at your local independent and Asian stores? You may be surprised by the bargains you find!

What are your thoughts on the survey? Do you agree with the results? Feel free to leave a comment or two in the section below!

 

[Valentino]

I think the article misses the point.... this is NOT comparing "apples with apples".
Imperfect products are just that and at times other price drops taken by a single shop or small group is because that stock was potentially older stock that the wholesaler wanted to clear from the market on the day...that type of stock is not available or even an option for large companies with 100's [up to 1000+ stores] to be supplied and which need to have product consistency from store to store .....that what most customers expect, to know whichever store you shop there will be product constency.

 

[Ejt]

Unfortunately, where we live, we only have the option of coles. Their fruit and vegetables are never very fresh. I would love to be able to go to a place like Harris farm. But our small town doesn't have one.

 

[Tygie]

As savvy shoppers, we are always looking for the best prices when it comes to grocery shopping, even more so given the rising cost of living.

Many of us may have assumed that major supermarkets like Woolworths or Coles are the smartest choice for our grocery needs. However, a recent survey conducted by Guardian Australia suggests that this may not be the case.

The survey, which looked at 61 different stores, revealed that major supermarkets are rarely the cheapest option when it comes to essential fruits and vegetables.

So, despite our instincts, we might not be getting the best value for our money by shopping at these well-known supermarkets.

View attachment 26411

Major supermarkets are almost never the cheapest option for essential fruit and vegetables, a survey revealed. Credit: Pixabay/congerdesign.

Ten Guardian reporters visited local independent and Asian grocers, as well as the two major chains, across Sydney, Melbourne, Townsville and Kyneton in July and compared prices on a selection of basics such as apples, bok choy, eggplants, pears, potatoes, sweet potatoes and zucchinis.

It turns out that independent and Asian grocers were routinely cheaper than Woolworths and Coles, despite the common perception that they are usually the most expensive option when it comes to affordable groceries.

Don Linke, who manages many fresh food markets around Victoria, said the survey's results showed how the supermarkets had 'exploited' consumers during this period of cost-of-living crisis.

'When they say they're going to “lock prices down”, “We're looking after you”, “We've got the lowest prices”, it's sloganeering that is at odds with reality,' he said.

One compelling piece of evidence supporting the survey's findings was the significant price difference found in Harris Farm's 'imperfects' range, which offers produce that might not look as appealing in terms of size or shape. This range was notably cheaper than similar products offered by the major supermarkets.

While some independent and Asian grocers showed minor price fluctuations, with some items being cheaper and others slightly more expensive than those in major supermarket chains, the overall trend suggested that major supermarkets seldom offered the lowest prices.

For instance, the survey revealed that granny smith apples were $1.24 and $1.94 cheaper at Asian grocers and Harris Farm imperfects, respectively, compared to major supermarkets.

Similarly, a bunch of bok choy was 88 cents cheaper at Asian grocers, while eggplants showed a remarkable price difference, being $3.64 and $4.88 cheaper than the major supermarket chains.

When it came to sweet potatoes, they were $1.51 cheaper at Asian grocers and $2 cheaper at Harris Farm, while zucchinis were priced at $1.76 per kilo less in the imperfects range.

The survey demonstrated that shopping at independent and Asian grocers or choosing imperfect produce at places like Harris Farm could result in substantial savings without compromising on the quality of the food.

A spokesperson for the Queensland Consumers Association, Ian Jarratt, said that while the survey's results weren't necessarily surprising, it did demonstrate that consumers need to take an active approach to ensure they are getting the best bang for their buck.

'Consumers can't just sit back and assume they're going to be the best price here or the best price there because it doesn't work like that. The system we have means consumers have got to play their part and be active, to shop around and compare values,' he said.

Further evidence of how these major supermarkets handle prices came from a Woolworths spokesperson who said the supermarket giant works 'hard to balance competitive value for customers and fair prices for farmers'.

Nevertheless, one thing's for sure: it pays to investigate every option available if you want to be sure you're getting the best value for your hard-earned money.

Key Takeaways

• A survey conducted by the Guardian Australia of prices at 61 retailers concluded that major supermarkets are almost never the cheapest option for essential fruit and vegetables.
• The survey included the prices of various fruits and vegetables recorded from multiple supermarkets and local grocers across Sydney, Melbourne, Townsville (Queensland) and Kyneton (Victoria).
• Imperfect produce, which is sold for much cheaper due to its less appealing looks, suggests that aesthetic standards also play a significant role in the higher prices of supermarket produce.
• A spokesperson for the Queensland Consumers Association emphasised the need for consumers to be proactive in shopping and comparing values, highlighting the importance of competition in the supermarket industry for customer value.

Members, the next time you go grocery shopping, why not venture off the beaten track and check out the apples, bok choy, eggplants, pears, potatoes, sweet potatoes and zucchinis at your local independent and Asian stores? You may be surprised by the bargains you find!

What are your thoughts on the survey? Do you agree with the results? Feel free to leave a comment or two in the section below!

Coles & Woollies DON'T have much fresh produce if at all - they have it in cold storage for gosh knows how long ahead of time before it is sent to the stores. Then it sits out on the shelves not always kept cold and this combined is why it does not last that long before turning into a rotting soggy mess before it all can be used. They charge different prices depending on how far they send it which alone is ridiculous.
You want Fresh then go to a farmers market; market day, fruit shop or smaller grocery store.

 

[Littleboy8]

Coles & Woollies DON'T have much fresh produce if at all - they have it in cold storage for gosh knows how long ahead of time before it is sent to the stores. Then it sits out on the shelves not always kept cold and this combined is why it does not last that long before turning into a rotting soggy mess before it all can be used. They charge different prices depending on how far they send it which alone is ridiculous.
You want Fresh then go to a farmers market; market day, fruit shop or smaller grocery store.

I shop at woollies on line and I’ve never had bad fruit or veggies yetlucky me

 

[Shane/#]

As savvy shoppers, we are always looking for the best prices when it comes to grocery shopping, even more so given the rising cost of living.

Many of us may have assumed that major supermarkets like Woolworths or Coles are the smartest choice for our grocery needs. However, a recent survey conducted by Guardian Australia suggests that this may not be the case.

The survey, which looked at 61 different stores, revealed that major supermarkets are rarely the cheapest option when it comes to essential fruits and vegetables.

So, despite our instincts, we might not be getting the best value for our money by shopping at these well-known supermarkets.

View attachment 26411

Major supermarkets are almost never the cheapest option for essential fruit and vegetables, a survey revealed. Credit: Pixabay/congerdesign.

Ten Guardian reporters visited local independent and Asian grocers, as well as the two major chains, across Sydney, Melbourne, Townsville and Kyneton in July and compared prices on a selection of basics such as apples, bok choy, eggplants, pears, potatoes, sweet potatoes and zucchinis.

It turns out that independent and Asian grocers were routinely cheaper than Woolworths and Coles, despite the common perception that they are usually the most expensive option when it comes to affordable groceries.

Don Linke, who manages many fresh food markets around Victoria, said the survey's results showed how the supermarkets had 'exploited' consumers during this period of cost-of-living crisis.

'When they say they're going to “lock prices down”, “We're looking after you”, “We've got the lowest prices”, it's sloganeering that is at odds with reality,' he said.

One compelling piece of evidence supporting the survey's findings was the significant price difference found in Harris Farm's 'imperfects' range, which offers produce that might not look as appealing in terms of size or shape. This range was notably cheaper than similar products offered by the major supermarkets.

While some independent and Asian grocers showed minor price fluctuations, with some items being cheaper and others slightly more expensive than those in major supermarket chains, the overall trend suggested that major supermarkets seldom offered the lowest prices.

For instance, the survey revealed that granny smith apples were $1.24 and $1.94 cheaper at Asian grocers and Harris Farm imperfects, respectively, compared to major supermarkets.

Similarly, a bunch of bok choy was 88 cents cheaper at Asian grocers, while eggplants showed a remarkable price difference, being $3.64 and $4.88 cheaper than the major supermarket chains.

When it came to sweet potatoes, they were $1.51 cheaper at Asian grocers and $2 cheaper at Harris Farm, while zucchinis were priced at $1.76 per kilo less in the imperfects range.

The survey demonstrated that shopping at independent and Asian grocers or choosing imperfect produce at places like Harris Farm could result in substantial savings without compromising on the quality of the food.

A spokesperson for the Queensland Consumers Association, Ian Jarratt, said that while the survey's results weren't necessarily surprising, it did demonstrate that consumers need to take an active approach to ensure they are getting the best bang for their buck.

'Consumers can't just sit back and assume they're going to be the best price here or the best price there because it doesn't work like that. The system we have means consumers have got to play their part and be active, to shop around and compare values,' he said.

Further evidence of how these major supermarkets handle prices came from a Woolworths spokesperson who said the supermarket giant works 'hard to balance competitive value for customers and fair prices for farmers'.

Nevertheless, one thing's for sure: it pays to investigate every option available if you want to be sure you're getting the best value for your hard-earned money.

Key Takeaways

• A survey conducted by the Guardian Australia of prices at 61 retailers concluded that major supermarkets are almost never the cheapest option for essential fruit and vegetables.
• The survey included the prices of various fruits and vegetables recorded from multiple supermarkets and local grocers across Sydney, Melbourne, Townsville (Queensland) and Kyneton (Victoria).
• Imperfect produce, which is sold for much cheaper due to its less appealing looks, suggests that aesthetic standards also play a significant role in the higher prices of supermarket produce.
• A spokesperson for the Queensland Consumers Association emphasised the need for consumers to be proactive in shopping and comparing values, highlighting the importance of competition in the supermarket industry for customer value.

Members, the next time you go grocery shopping, why not venture off the beaten track and check out the apples, bok choy, eggplants, pears, potatoes, sweet potatoes and zucchinis at your local independent and Asian stores? You may be surprised by the bargains you find!

What are your thoughts on the survey? Do you agree with the results? Feel free to leave a comment or two in the section below!

Nothing surprising about Cole's and Woolworths been ripping of customers for years and people keep shopping there to be loyal when have thieves been loyal do yourself a favour shop around

 

[zazava]

...some Aged Pensioners , particularly in Residential Care are not mobile and have everything delivered ... what are your suggestions for them regarding their grocery shopping ?

 

[mylittletibbies]

...some Aged Pensioners , particularly in Residential Care are not mobile and have everything delivered ... what are your suggestions for them regarding their grocery shopping ?

Surely most people have family or friends who could help with this.

 

[mylittletibbies]

I think the article misses the point.... this is NOT comparing "apples with apples".
Imperfect products are just that and at times other price drops taken by a single shop or small group is because that stock was potentially older stock that the wholesaler wanted to clear from the market on the day...that type of stock is not available or even an option for large companies with 100's [up to 1000+ stores] to be supplied and which need to have product consistency from store to store .....that what most customers expect, to know whichever store you shop there will be product constency.

Imperfects, as you call them, are usually odd shaped veg or fruit. Who cares what shape it is it tastes the same.
If you think you're getting "fresh"from Coles and Woolies you're
badly mistaken they have enormous cold stores. Smaller stores do not have the facilities to do this, hence the cheaper prices for a quicker turn over.
Here in WA I buy my veg from Spud Shed and find I usually save around 50% than if I shop in the major supermarkets.

 

[Littleboy8]

Surely most people have family or friends who could help with this.

I have don’t be afraid to ask for help

 

[Littleboy8]

Imperfects, as you call them, are usually odd shaped veg or fruit. Who cares what shape it is it tastes the same.
If you think you're getting "fresh"from Coles and Woolies you're
badly mistaken they have enormous cold stores. Smaller stores do not have the facilities to do this, hence the cheaper prices for a quicker turn over.
Here in WA I buy my veg from Spud Shed and find I usually save around 50% than if I shop in the major supermarkets.

I always get imperfect taste exactly the same odd shaped but cheaper who cares I love getting funny shaped carrots especially

 

[Littleboy8]

Coles & Woollies DON'T have much fresh produce if at all - they have it in cold storage for gosh knows how long ahead of time before it is sent to the stores. Then it sits out on the shelves not always kept cold and this combined is why it does not last that long before turning into a rotting soggy mess before it all can be used. They charge different prices depending on how far they send it which alone is ridiculous.
You want Fresh then go to a farmers market; market day, fruit shop or smaller grocery store.

Hard when your immobile

 

[IAN3005]

I know in Sydney my Asian stores are much cheaper than Coles and woolworths.

Better yet if you can try growing vegetables even it pots

 

[IAN3005]

yes... I have found a greengrocer in Bonnyrig Plaza that is even cheaper than the Asian shops and miles cheaper than even Aldi. The quality is even better. Try $1.99 a kg for Pink lady apples, $1.99 for bananas.

 

[Suzanne rose]

yes... I have found a greengrocer in Bonnyrig Plaza that is even cheaper than the Asian shops and miles cheaper than even Aldi. The quality is even better. Try $1.99 a kg for Pink lady apples, $1.99 for bananas.

I will have to tell my daughter she is in Casula

 

[IAN3005]

I will have to tell my daughter she is in Casula

Bonnyrig Fruit world.. parking is a problem since they closed off the main carpark but you can use the new carpark close to the greengrocer but you have to get there early to get a car park.

 

[Suzanne rose]

Bonnyrig Fruit world.. parking is a problem since they closed off the main carpark but you can use the new carpark close to the greengrocer but you have to get there early to get a car park.

I just told her , she comes all the way to Roselands to get her fruit n vegetables. So thank you much appreciated

 

[IAN3005]

I just told her , she comes all the way to Roselands to get her fruit n vegetables. So thank you much appreciated

A pleasure.