Kroger shopper says they’re leaving the ‘too expensive’ chain as competitor begins dropping prices despite inflation
AN INFLATION-weary shopper revealed that they would be ditching one store after realizing another grocer had lower prices.
The shopper revealed that they have decided to switch from Kroger to Walmart because the megachain has lowered its prices on all essentials.
"Been shopping for groceries at @Walmart and they have lowered their prices," Theresa (@H2002Theresa) wrote on X, formerly Twitter.
"I can't afford to shop at @kroger anymore it's too expensive. #ShopWalmart"
The tweet comes over a month after Walmart CEO Doug McMillon said the company would “lead on price."
“Our rollback count is up and customers are responding to our price leadership,” he said.
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This is not the first time a customer has been enraged at the uptick in prices at the food retailer.
The angry person shared a post on Facebook, written like a formal letter.
"Dear Kroger, your policy on pre-authorization of groceries ordered online needs reviewed and updated," the customer began.
"When I read it, it stated a pre-authorization of the amount of groceries, which I understand. I have noticed this several times.
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"For example, if my grocery order is $250 and I have $50 in digital coupons, it will always charge the $250, and when it posts, it will charge me the correct amount of $200," they explained.
However, the reason for their complaint was due to additional overcharges the shopper never agreed to.
"Show me the box I checked that [says] you can take $199.47 for my groceries and then take an additional $227," they wrote.
Kroger versus Walmart Prices
find a side-by-side comparison of the prices at Walmart and Kroger
Sara Lee Artesano Original White Bread:
Kroger: $4.49
Walmart: $3.18
1 dozen Great Value Large White Eggs
Kroger: $3.28
Walmart: $2.98
Simple Truth® Natural Thin-Sliced Boneless and Skinless Chicken Breast
Kroger: $7.69
Walmart: $7.75
Fairlife 2% Reduced Fat Lactose-Free & High-Protein Ultra-Filtered Milk
Kroger: $4.99
Walmart: $4.48
Birds Eye Steamfresh Mixed Vegetables Frozen Vegetables
Kroger: $1.49
Walmart: $1.23
"I know I didn't check that box. Then when I call you cut me off and send me to a survey."
The customer concluded the post by saying, 'Sincerely, a customer who will never do this again."
Kroger responded to the frustrated shopper by thanking them for their feedback.
"We appreciate your input regarding our policy on pre-authorization of groceries for online orders! Your feedback allows us to improve our company and our customer's experiences," it wrote.
"We will forward your comments to our Leadership Team to make them aware of your concerns."
Inflation is down significantly from its peak annualized rate of over 9% in June 2022.
However, the rate has remained high, roughly plateauing over the past year.
In April, the consumer price index, a measure of inflation, fell slightly to 3.4%.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the cost of groceries and eating at home fell slightly in April.
McMillon, however, said groceries at Walmart saw a slight rise in prices.
On top of the company’s rollbacks, McMillion said that general merchandise had seen slight deflation over the past months.
Despite Walmart touting its lower prices, inflation remains above 3% year-over-year, according to recent federal data.
In addition to rolling back prices, the company has also started implementing other strategies.
The store has focused on implementing new tech and practices to improve the company's bottom line.
Walmart reorganized its delivery system in recent months by using stores to fulfill delivery orders.
The company said it was also looking to deliver more packages on fewer trips, improving efficiency.
Walmart is one of several retailers taking steps to lower prices.
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Whole Foods is making moves to minimize the impact of inflation through 'thoughtful sourcing.'
Governments have been handing out money to provide inflation relief.
