Shoppers who rely on supermarket value ranges are facing the steepest price increases, a survey has found.
Low-income families are paying more than fifth more (21.6%) for the lowest-price own-label products than they were this time last year, compared to an increase of 13.2% for standard own-label ranges and 13.4% for groceries in supermarkets' 'premium' ranges. A study by consumer group Which? found the price of value items like sausages has been hiked by 21 per cent since last year, affecting low income families the most.
At the time of the report, overall grocery inflation was 15.9% across UK supermarkets, but the report found that some items, like milk, had increased by 26.1 percent at Asda, with the price for value sausages up from 80p to £1.27 at the same supermarket.
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Muesli at Sainsbury’s was the biggest offender, as its price soared by 87.5% from £1.20 to £2.25, while tins of sliced carrots from Tesco rose 63% from 20p to 33p. The price of cheese also soared by 23.8% overall, with some types skyrocketing as much as 96.6%.
Sue Davies, head of food policy at Which?, called upon supermarkets to act to ensure everyone has access to basic, affordable food, particularly in areas where people are most in need.
The research by Which? shows that those who struggle the most to feed themselves and their families during the cost of living crisis are hit the hardest from the food price inflation, and Ms Davies said: “It’s clear that food costs have soared in recent months, but our inflation tracker shows how households relying on supermarket value ranges are being hit the hardest.
“Supermarkets need to act and Which? is calling for them to ensure everyone has easy access to basic, affordable food ranges at a store near them, particularly in areas where people are most in need. Supermarkets must also do more to ensure transparent pricing enables people to easily work out which products offer the best value and target their promotions to support people who are really struggling.”
The latest figures from data analysts Kantar showed that own label ranges have consistently been bought over brands since February last year. Sales of these lines were up by 13.2% in the four weeks to February 19, well ahead of branded products at 4.6%
The news comes as Kantar reported that inflation rose again to reach 17.1% in the four weeks to February 19. the highest level it has ever recorded. "Our latest research shows that grocery price inflation is the second most important financial issue for the public behind energy costs, with two-thirds of people concerned by food and drink prices above public sector strikes and climate change," says the report. "One quarter say they’re struggling financially, versus one in five this time last year. The numbers speak for themselves. If people don’t change how they buy their groceries, households are facing an £811 increase to their average annual bill."
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