Shoppers are paying more for their goods without realising – as manufacturers shrink the sizes of popular grocery packs.
Companies are trying to protect profits to combat rising costs. However many brands are reluctant to increase prices for fear of a consumer backlash – especially as household budgets are so visibly under pressure.
One option that many seem to be adopting is to charge customers the same, but make the packs smaller.
Brand names such as Strongbow, Pampers, Pringles, Dairylea and Rolo have all made packs smaller without trimming prices.
Poor harvests and increasing production costs have been cited as reasons why companies have needed to increase the cost to the consumer. Metrication has also been used as an excuse by some manufacturers.
Previously, a bag of Fox’s Glacier Mints would have weighed 8oz. But in 2002 this was cut to 200g, which is nearer to 7oz.
The National Consumer Council is concerned that companies are trying to pull the wool over shoppers’ eyes and mislead consumers with the approach known in America as ‚Äö√Ñ√≤grocery shrink ray’.
A spokesman said: ‘We are extremely concerned to hear about goods shrinking in size without shrinking in price, as it cheats unsuspecting shoppers already under financial pressure from rising household and motoring costs.
‘A considerable number of brands are downsizing in this way. But most customers are savvy and companies should realise that their corporate reputation could suffer.’
Chiltern’s Nathan Gladwell says: “This devious tactic only piles more pressure on household finances that are already nearing breaking point.
“Families with more mouths to feed will find that the weekly groceries won’t stretch as far, or that they need to spend more money to get the same amount.
“That’s why websites offering advice and tips on saving money are proving very popular, as consumers try to outwit the sneaky chain stores. Sites like www.chiltern.uk.com try to ensure that shoppers find the best deals and that they have more money in their pockets each month.”