A recent study by a consumer watchdog shows significant price differences in supermarket convenience stores.
- Customers are paying up to 21% more at supermarket convenience outlets compared to larger store locations.
- Morrisons, Tesco, and Sainsbury’s show varying price disparities based on product type and loyalty schemes.
- Geographical location influences pricing, with city centre outlets generally more expensive.
- Daily shopping requirements mean some consumers have no choice but to pay increased prices.
A comprehensive study by Which? has uncovered that shoppers could face up to a 21% increase in prices at supermarket convenience stores compared to the larger outlets of the same chains. This suggests that convenience shopping comes at a premium for many British consumers.
The study examined the pricing of 42 grocery items across Morrisons Daily, Sainsbury’s Local, and Tesco Express stores over three visits in June and July. The findings highlighted that Morrisons registered the highest price discrepancy, with products being 21% more expensive on average in its convenience outlets. Additionally, Morrisons More loyalty scheme members might encounter up to 22% higher costs as this scheme is not yet available in these branches. The company has indicated plans to introduce the More card to its Daily stores soon.
Tesco’s convenience stores exhibited a 10% price difference, with a further 11% for Clubcard holders, while Sainsbury’s reported a 5% difference, extending to a 14% hike for Nectar members. Both Tesco and Sainsbury’s have attributed these differences partly to their locations, which are often in areas with higher operational costs.
According to Which? retail editor, Ele Clark, consumers who rely on nearby convenience stores may find themselves spending significantly more throughout the year compared to those who have access to larger supermarkets. Convenience stores, while easy to reach and suitable for quick purchases, impose economic disadvantages for those who must use them regularly.
The revelations from this study follow earlier reports from Which? on supermarket pricing strategies. Recently, they questioned the efficacy of loyalty schemes, describing some discount offers as ‘questionable’. It suggests an ongoing concern over how retailer strategies impact consumer expenditure.
The study highlights significant financial implications for consumers dependent on supermarket convenience stores for regular shopping needs.
