The Consumer Council today (February 10) 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 Sai Kung District.
In the analysis were listed the top 10 products with the most price differences found in this survey. Top on the list was: Balm (White) 19.4g (from $12 to $21.5, or a price difference of 79.2%).
Following closely (between 72.5% and 51.9%) were: Sliced Pineapple in Syrup 234g ($4 to $6.9, or 72.5%); Chili Soy Sauce 250ml ($8.9 to $14, or 57.3%); Coffee (Regular) 250ml ($4.5 to $7, or 55.6%); Coke 1.25L ($7.9 to $12 or 51.9%).
The remainders 5 of the top 10 list (ranging from 49.5% to 40%) were: Cooling Gel Sheet 6pcs ($20 to $29.9, or 49.5%); Kiu Kiang Shuang Jin Chiew 500ml ($10.9 to $16, or 46.8%); Imperial Leather Bath Soap 125g × 4 ($10 to $14.5, or 45%); Lipbalm 3.5g ($17 to $23.9, or 40.6%); Black Bean Garlic Sauce 226g ($10 to $14, or 40%).
Other highlights in this weekly price survey covering (a) prepackaged food products, and (b) household and personal care products:
Prepackaged Food
- A total of 20 items in this category at 20 retail outlets in the Sai Kung District were compared for their prices.
- Considerable differences between the lowest and the highest unit prices were recorded, ranging from 11.1% to 72.5%.
Household/Personal Care Products
- A total of 20 items in this category at 16 retail outlets was surveyed, with price differences ranging from 5.1% to 79.2%.
- Overall, more highest unit prices were recorded at major supermarket, household products store and health-and-beauty chains than other retail outlets.
The weekly survey covers, for price comparison, 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 Sai Kung District Office.