Canadian grocery shoppers make moves to deal with high prices

Canadians are doing everything they can to lessen the impact of food inflation.

A new report from Dalhousie University’s Agri Food Analytics Lab revealed nearly two-thirds of shoppers have switched to grocery stores with cheaper prices. Additionally, almost 60% of shoppers look for discounted food products — expiring and clearance items — at their new location.

A new survey from Canadian-owned market research and analytics company Leger shows 64% of Canadians believe the rate of inflation at the grocery stores is getting worse.

News of the shopper research comes when Loblaw and Walmart Canada are threatening to not sign a grocery code of conduct. The code was created in response to contentious fees being charged to suppliers by large grocery retailers, which have significant bargaining power due to their size.

Loblaw claims the code will increase food prices, but last week, Canada’s House of Commons committee threatened that if Walmart Canada and Loblaw do not sign the voluntary code of conduct, it could be legislated.

Last month, Loblaw rattled the industry when it said it would cut the discount on expiring foods from 50% to 30%. After listening to shopper concerns and colleagues the retailer went back to the 50% discount.