Shopper outraged over Woolworths shelf find

In a world where the cost of living is constantly on the rise, Australians are becoming increasingly vigilant about where their hard-earned dollars are going, especially when it comes to the weekly grocery shop.

For many over 60s, who often have to make do with a fixed income, budgeting for groceries is a critical task. It's no wonder then that a recent discovery by a Woolworths shopper has left many shaking their heads in disbelief and frustration.


The incident in question involves a 135-gram bag of Kettle's Lime and Chilli crisps, which was found at a Woolworths Metro in Melbourne with a price tag of $7.80.

The shopper, understandably taken aback by what they deemed the 'craziest' price they had seen for such a modest-sized snack, took to social media to voice their dismay.


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A Woolies shopper was enraged after seeing a bag of chips for $7.80 at the supermarket. Image: Reddit


'This has got to be the craziest thing I've seen at Woolies post COVID,' they lamented, referencing the infamous toilet paper shortages that became a symbol of pandemic panic-buying.

While the same bag of crisps is currently listed as a special on Woolworths' online store for $5.20, down from the regular price of $6.50, the in-store price has sparked a broader conversation about the cost of groceries in Australia.

Other shoppers chimed in, with one declaring they 'straight up won't buy chips at Coles or Woolworths anymore' due to the high costs.

The issue of supermarket pricing is so pressing that it has caught the attention of the government. The government announced that former Labor Minister Craig Emerson will spearhead an investigation into supermarket prices.

This comes on the heels of a review into the food and grocery code of conduct, initiated in October after a barrage of price gouging accusations from customers.


'We've seen a reduction to costs of supermarkets that haven't been passed on in an appropriate way to consumers and we want to make sure that that happens,' Albanese stated, emphasising the government's commitment to ensuring fair pricing for consumers.

‘Everything is on the table because we want to make sure that customers benefit.’

The backdrop to these price hikes is a potato shortage that has plagued the country since last year. Persistent fungal diseases and extreme weather events, including floods, have severely impacted potato crops.

States such as Queensland and NSW have struggled to meet demand, resulting in soaring prices for potato products.

With recent storms once again threatening farming areas on the east coast, there is a palpable fear that relief is not in sight and consumers will continue to bear the brunt of these agricultural setbacks.


In the meantime, people must explore alternative shopping options. Local markets, discount stores, and even growing your own veggies can be great ways to save money and ensure you're getting fresh, quality produce.

And remember, if you ever feel that you're not getting value for money, don't hesitate to reach out to the customer service department of your supermarket to express your concerns or request a refund.

Key Takeaways

  • A Woolworths shopper has expressed disbelief at the high price of a bag of Kettle's Lime and Chilli crisps amid ongoing potato shortages and increasing supermarket prices.
  • The 135-gram bag was priced at $7.80 at a Woolies Metro in Melbourne, a price the shopper called the 'craziest' they had seen.
  • The government has announced that former Labor Minister Craig Emerson will lead an investigation into supermarket prices after accusations of price gouging.
  • Australia's recent potato shortage, exacerbated by adverse weather conditions, has impacted supply and driven up prices of potato products.

Have you noticed a significant increase in the price of your favourite snacks or essential food items? How has this affected your shopping habits? Share your experiences and tips for budget-friendly shopping in the comments below.
 
Sponsored
I LOVE potato chips, and if I was to open a large bag, I wouldn't stop until I had finished the bag.
For a New Year's resolution 2023, I decided to stop buying my bags of chips.
Yes, it was hard going past them in the supermarkets, but I remained steadfast.
With the prices going sky-high, I must admit that helped me.
Now, I hardly miss them at all, though my waistline doesn't show my resolve.
I love chippies too. And the price has certainly curbed my enthusiasm.
 

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