The Consumer Council today (March 17) released its weekly price survey on a basket of 40 food and household items available at major supermarket chains and other retail outlets in Ap Lei Chau.
In the analysis were listed the top 10 products with the most price differences found in this survey. Top on the list was: Coke 500ml (from $4 to $8.9, or a price difference of 122.5%).
Following closely (between 66.7% and 50%) were: Sensitive Toothpaste (Fresh) 120g ($12 to $20, or 66.7%); Satay Broth for Hot Pot 75g ($4 to $6.5, or 62.5%); Salonpas 10 patches ($8 to $12.5, or 56.3%); Shoe Polish (Black) 45ml ($14 to $21 or 50%).
The remainders 5 of the top 10 list (ranging from 46.8% to 41.2%) were: Liquid Seasoning 205ml ($10.9 to $16, or 46.8%); Blended Sesame Oil 150ml ($10.9 to $16, or 46.8%); Fabric Softener Refill (Natural) 2L ($10 to $14.5, or 45%); Mopiko Ointment 20g ($18 to $25.5, or 41.7%); Weisen-U Tablets 30's ($34 to $48, or 41.2%); Superior Light Soy Sauce 500ml ($8.5 to $12, 0r 41.2%).
Other highlights in this weekly price survey covering (a) prepackaged food products, and (b) household and personal care products:
Prepackaged Food
- A total of 17 items in this category at 18 retail outlets in Ap Lei Chau were compared for their prices.
- Considerable differences between the lowest and the highest unit prices were recorded, ranging from 3.5% to 122.5%.
Household/Personal Care Products
- A total of 23 items in this category at 14 retail outlets was surveyed, with price differences ranging from 13.2% to 66.7%.
- Overall, more highest unit prices were recorded at major supermarket 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 Southern District Office.