The Consumer Council today (November 23) released its weekly price survey on a basket of 45 food and household items available at major supermarket chains and other retail outlets in Wan Chai.
In the analysis were listed the top 10 products with the most price differences found in this survey. Top on the list was: Pei Pa Lo Cough Syrup 150ml (from HK$17 to HK$39, or a price difference of 129.4%).
Following closely (between 111.1% and 84.6%) were: Cooling Gel Sheet for Children 6pcs (HK$18 to HK$38, or 111.1%); Mentholatum Nasal Relief 1g (HK$8 to HK$15, or 87.5%); Lasting Care Moisturising Lotion 200ml (HK$15 to HK$28, or 86.7%); Sweetened Milk Spread 388g (HK$6.5 to HK$12 or 84.6%).
The remainders 5 of the top 10 list (ranging from 76.5% to 61.3%) were: Classic Bath Soap 115g × 4 (HK$8.5 to HK$15, or 76.5%); Chocolate Sandwich Cookies (Original) 29.4g × 9's (HK$14.9 to HK$25.5, or 71.1%); Floss (Waxed) 183m (HK$30 to HK$49.9, or 66.3%); Preserved Vegetable 300g (HK$8 to HK$12.9, or 61.3%); Rice Flour 600g (HK$8 to HK$12.9, or 61.3%).
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 Wan Chai were compared for their prices.
- Considerable differences between the lowest and the highest unit prices were recorded, ranging from 18.8% to 84.6%.
Household / Personal Care Products
- A total of 20 items in this category at 20 retail outlets were surveyed, with price differences ranging from 14.4% to 129.4%.
- Overall, more highest unit prices were recorded at major supermarket and health-and-beauty chains than other retail outlets.
Fresh Produce
- Due to possible variations in the place of origin, quality, size or freshness of fresh produce, direct price comparison is considered not suitable.
- A total of 5 items from 2 to 3 stalls at the Bowrington Road Market and 3 major supermarket chains were included in the survey for reference of consumers.
The weekly survey covers, for price comparison, a broad range of retail outlets of different types 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 Wan Chai District Office.