The Consumer Council today (December 30) released its weekly price survey on a basket of 40 food and household items available at major supermarket chains and other retail outlets in the Fanling District.
In the analysis were listed the top 10 products with the most price differences found in this survey. Top on the list was: Men Daily Face Scrub 100g (from $31 to $79.9, or a price difference of 157.7%).
Following closely (between 134.1% and 90.5%) were: 100% Pure Petroleum Jelly 1.75oz ($8.5 to $19.9, or 134.1%); Keratin Anti-dandruff Balanced Aqua Moisturising Shampoo 750ml ($18 to $39.9, or 121.7%); Triple Action Fluoride Toothpaste 200g ($7.5 to $16.5, or 120%); Anti-bacterial Dishwashing Detergent 1000ml ($10.5 to $20 or 90.5%).
The remainders 5 of the top 10 list (ranging from 78.2% to 48.8%) were: Deep Free Facial Scrub (Green and White Scrubs) 100g ($28 to $49.9, or 78.2%); Coconut Milk 5.6oz ($3.9 to $6.9, or 76.9%); Natural Citrus Mouthwash 1L ($39.9 to $62.9, or 57.6%); Chopped Pork and Ham 198g ($8.8 to $13.5, or 53.4%); Neosed Tablets 15's ($16 to $23.8, or 48.8%).
Other highlights in this weekly price survey covering (a) prepackaged food products, and (b) household and personal care products:
Prepackaged Food
- A total of 16 items in this category at 11 retail outlets in the Fanling District were compared for their prices.
- Considerable differences between the lowest and the highest unit prices were recorded, ranging from 8.3% to 76.9%.
Household/Personal Care Products
- A total of 24 items in this category at 13 retail outlets was surveyed, with price differences ranging from 10.1% to 157.7%.
- Overall, more highest unit prices were recorded at major supermarket and health-and-beauty chains than other retail outlets.
The weekly survey covers different types of retail outlets located in the district under comparison, including major and individual supermarkets, health-and-beauty chains, frozen food and grocery stores, and drugstores.
It is common that many outlets will offer bulk-purchase incentives, add-size packs, gifts, rebates, etc. for purchase of designated products or up to a certain value.
Consumers, however, should note that promotional offers are not necessarily the best bargains (the lowest unit price) available on the items. They should shop around whenever possible and compare prices.
Results of the weekly price survey and analysis are available on the Council's website, its Consumer Advice Centres, and the Public Enquiry Service Centre of North District Office.