Shoppers Warned About Rising Milk Prices at Tesco, Sainsbury's, and Morrisons
- Shoppers at convenience stores in the UK may pay significantly more for essentials than at larger supermarkets.
- Morrison's Daily had the highest price mark-up at 21%, with Sainsbury's Local and Tesco Express following at 14% and 11% respectively.
- The increased costs are attributed to higher operating expenses in urban areas, potentially costing consumers hundreds of pounds annually.
A recent analysis by Which? has revealed that shoppers in the UK may be paying significantly higher prices for essential items at convenience stores compared to larger supermarkets. The study found that over half of the population frequents these smaller stores at least once a week, leading to increased annual costs. Morrison's Daily was identified as having the highest price mark-up, with customers paying an average of 21% more for groceries than at larger locations. Sainsbury's Local and Tesco Express also showed notable price increases, with 14% and 11% higher prices, respectively. Essential items such as milk, bread, and butter were particularly affected, with average mark-ups of 8%, 14%, and 20%. The report highlighted specific products with significant price hikes, including Morrison's own-label chickpeas, which saw a 104% increase. Supermarket chains attribute these higher prices to increased operating costs associated with smaller store formats, particularly in urban areas where rent and business rates are elevated. Experts suggest that the economic inefficiency of replenishing smaller stores contributes to the price differences. This situation raises concerns for consumers who may be unaware of the financial implications of shopping at convenience locations, potentially costing them hundreds of pounds annually.