kiwi Faces Price Doubling Concerns Amid Quality Demands
OSLO, Norway – Consumers may soon face significantly higher prices for fruits adn vegetables at Kiwi supermarkets as the retailer prioritizes quality over solely seeking the lowest costs, according to communications manager Gesen Nora Helgesen. The shift comes as Kiwi navigates increasing demands for consistently high product standards and a willingness to forgo the cheapest options to ensure supply meets those expectations.
The move impacts Norwegian shoppers already contending with rising food costs and potential supply chain disruptions. While Kiwi currently offers a 15 percent “trump bonus” on produce, Helgesen explained that the chain cannot reliably source large quantities of consistently high-quality fruits and vegetables by exclusively pursuing the lowest bids. This strategy signals a potential recalibration of value for Kiwi customers, perhaps trading immediate savings for guaranteed freshness and quality.
“Then we cannot necessarily buy lots with the cheapest cucumbers or grapes, as we do not know if they necessarily have good enough quality in as large a quantity as we need,” Helgesen stated. The retailer’s decision reflects a broader industry challenge: balancing affordability with maintaining consistent standards in a volatile global market.