Woolworths Faces Backlash Over Dramatic Price Hike on Lasagna
A customer's discovery of a new, smaller lasagna size at more than double the previous price has sparked outrage online.
A Woolworths shopper has publicly criticized the supermarket after discovering a significant price increase and size reduction for its lasagna product, a move that has drawn widespread condemnation from other customers.
The customer, Jo-Ann, shared her experience from a Woolworths store in Port Stephens on the NSW Central Coast, detailing how a 2kg lasagna, previously priced between $12 and $13.89, had been replaced by a 1.5kg version costing $25.00.
"I'm boycotting Woolworths. I'm so over the games they play, raising prices in the most underhanded way," Jo-Ann wrote online. She noted that the original product was unavailable, and when she inquired, staff indicated it had been discontinued. The price ticket for the old product, however, remained visible.
She calculated that the new product offered 25% less lasagna for double the price. The price per 100g for the lasagna more than doubled with this change, according to the price tags.
This situation was widely interpreted by commenters as a prime example of "shrinkflation," a practice where manufacturers reduce the size of products while keeping or increasing the price.
The customer's post garnered hundreds of responses, with many expressing shock and dissatisfaction. Some users joked about the price, while others suggested making lasagna from scratch. However, one commenter defended the convenience of pre-made meals, stating not everyone is a proficient cook and that the lasagna was a preferred convenient option for them.
Daily Mail has contacted Woolworths for comment on the matter.