Consumer NZ is raising alarms after New World and Pak’nSave, two major supermarkets owned by Foodstuffs, quietly removed the option for online shoppers to sort grocery items by price.

The change has sparked concerns among consumers who rely on this essential tool to navigate rising grocery costs. Chris Schulz, an investigative journalist with Consumer NZ, expressed disappointment over the decision, stating, “Shoppers expect to filter by price on retail websites, making this move surprising and frustrating.”

While other retailers like Woolworths and The Warehouse continue to offer price-sorting options, New World and Pak’nSave have shifted to sorting products by popularity instead.

A Consumer NZ member highlighted the issue, stating, “In a time when grocery prices are rising, making it harder to find the cheapest options is simply unacceptable.”

Impact on shopping choices

Consumer NZ conducted a survey of grocery items on both supermarket websites and found that Pams products, the supermarkets’ home brand, overwhelmingly dominated search results. This raises concerns about how the removal of the price-sorting feature may limit consumer choices and affect pricing transparency.

“This move could restrict options for shoppers and potentially boost supermarket profit margins at the expense of local suppliers,” Schulz said.

Foodstuffs responds

In response to inquiries from Consumer NZ, a Foodstuffs spokesperson explained that the removal of the sort-by-price tool is part of an upgrade to their digital platform aimed at enhancing e-commerce offerings, including improved unit pricing.

They assured that a new sorting feature will be introduced soon to facilitate price and unit price comparisons, though no specific timeline was provided.

Consumer NZ is questioning Foodstuffs’ removal of an online price-sorting tool. Image / Consumer NZ

Competitors stand firm

In contrast, Woolworths has confirmed that it has no plans to eliminate its price-sorting feature, highlighting its commitment to providing customers with the best value.

Consumer advocacy continues

Schulz described the removal of the sorting option as “bizarre,” especially during an ongoing cost of living crisis, warning that it could hinder consumers’ ability to make informed purchasing decisions.

He reiterated the need for greater transparency in the grocery market and urged shoppers to remain vigilant.

For further updates on this issue and to voice your concerns, visit Consumer NZ’s website.

- SunLive