Woman shopping/
picture: Pexels
The conversation surrounding the continuous rise of the cost of living in South Africa has become one that is getting increasingly louder as citizens complain about salaries not matching up. With Black Friday fast approaching, consumers’ eyes are stuck to retailers and Woolworths has raised a few eyebrows with their pricing.
It is no secret that the cost of living in South Africa is a cause for concern, as according to Business Tech, things such as electricity, transport, and basic groceries currently outstrip inflation, which has caused a significant decline in the quality of life for a number of families.
A few retailers have consistently been at the centre of conversations where consumers question the ethics of pricing their items the way they do. Popular store Woolworths is among these, as they have garnered a reputation as an ‘exclusive’ store that caters for the upper echelons of mzansi.
A user who shared the current price of a 160g tub of mangoes (R63.99) at one of the Woolworths chains sparked a bigger conversation regarding their prices, and whether citizens will need to stand up against this establishment to ensure that all South Africans are considered when pricing is done.
“Scary times,” the caption reads of the picture of mangoes reads.
Scary times. pic.twitter.com/B50g6yMHw3
— Malowé (@pmxlxisane) November 11, 2024
They are not beating the allegations Shem, but on a serious note is this allowed in terms of consumer protection? Or they can do as they please with their prices?@WOOLWORTHS_SA
— Lulu Mkhawane (@LMkhawane) November 12, 2024
One thing Woolworths suppliers know, is that the Woolworths customer loves exclusivity and will pay any price. The product could be supplied by the same suppliers of Checkers/Shoprite, but Woolies customers would be think they got the best quality. https://t.co/xOgkI5KSbM
— 🌻𝕏𝕏𝕏 Maqhawe 𝕏 𝕏 𝕏🌻 (@MaqPaulM) November 11, 2024
Some users also noted issues with the sell-by and best-before dates of the fruits in question, highlighting the fact these retailers, Woolworths in particular.
Everyones talking about the price and not the Use by and sell by date? How are fresh mangoes only good for 1 day?
And also, they usually sell these in 3s if im not mistaken. Its R63 for 3, even at the counter they remind you that you need to go fetch 2 more
— Val. (@valeriekubheka) November 12, 2024
Also see: Kwezi Ndlovu clarifies a few misconceptions regarding her partner and marriage
