Supermarkets and needles

Dennie Quill, Columnist

In America, supermarkets are reported to be in deep decline. According to the latest statistics, traditional supermarkets in the United States sold 51 per cent of the nation's groceries last year, down from 66 per cent in 2000.

Part of the reason for the decline is the fact that people now have more choices from which to make their purchases, such as pharmacies and gas stations.

There is also the existence of huge chains like Walmart and Target, which have taken the slogan 'from a pin to an anchor' to higher heights. They open for longer hours and their prices are competitive. Even Amazon, formerly a non-food online giant, now offers packaged groceries in bulk at competitive prices.

Although figures for the performance of supermarkets in Jamaica are not readily available, I have a gut feeling that they are also seeing a decline as householders make smarter choices in their struggle to make ends meet. The Super Plus chain buckled long before the worldwide recession, and Hi-Lo Food Stores, which was first incorporated in Jamaica in 1954, reduced its outlets in the last few years. We have witnessed pharmacies and gas stations increase their inventories to offer a wider variety of items for shoppers on the go.

More bang for buck

Overall, shoppers appear determined to get the most for their dollar. For example, many persons have returned to the markets to stock up on supplies of fruits, vegetables, produce and meat. This way they escape the dreaded GCT, and they say the items are fresher.

The phenomenon of the dollar store in America was designed to satisfy demand of the low-income earner, but as the economy soured, persons from other income bands started finding out the joys of these shops. Dollar stores have become a fixture on the American retail landscape, and the pound store in England is its thriving offspring.

There is also wholesale shopping which allows families and friends to get together and buy in bulk at considerable savings.

Many supermarkets are now offering senior citizens' discounts and loyalty cards in order to retain their customer base. Bottom line is that customers are in search of bargains and quality. So should supermarkets be doing something more to ensure their viability?

On pins and needles

The news that passengers on Delta Airlines found needles in their turkey sandwiches is very unsettling at a time when many families are preparing to jet off for their annual summer vacation.

The sandwiches were prepared by a food-service company in Amsterdam and served on Sunday to passengers travelling on four flights into the US.

We trust that Delta finds the culprits really fast. Other airlines should also take notes because food safety in the air has to be a priority.

With this being Olympic year, people of goodwill are hoping for a safe and successful event in London, England. Sadly, there are those who may try to kill the joy.

More than 7,000 athletes are expected to compete in the Olympics. London will, therefore, see a massive influx of people and the potential for disaster feels huge. There are those who would employ any means, including using food, as a weapon to make their voices heard.

Dennie Quill is a veteran media practitioner. Email feedback to columns@gleanerjm.com and denniequill@gmail.com.