Saying “tings tuff in The Bahamas” these days is an understatement! It seems like with the introduction of VAT, increased prices on everything but less jobs being added to the economy, Bahamians everywhere are finding it more difficult to stretch their dollars.
While in a local grocery store recently, I watched intently as a lady stood in front of the bread stand carefully reading the price tags and looking for the better buy. After a few minutes she literally flung a loaf of bread into her shopping cart and stormed off muttering some insults at the store laced with curse words and complaining about the hefty price. And I agree with her! I continued shopping and was soon joining her cuss-mobile as I picked up items that I need to survive, but clearly wont be able to afford in a few years if these prices continue on this trend. And then I thought, “I’m going to die soon.” Yes DIE! Clearly it’s what these people want us to do if we can’t afford basic food, hygiene and household items. I couldn’t believe the high prices stuck to some of the most basic products and had to take photos to share!
REALLY?! Almost $9 for a carton of eggs? I know there are other brands and options, but they too are pricey, even the supposed locally grown ones are priced at more than $5 a carton.
$18 for baby formula? How is the baby supposed to eat, grow and stay healthy?
$20 for a box of Gain detergent??? And $13 for fabric softener.
We all know that importing goods into the country could also be pricey for these store owners and with customs and other taxes and charges, yes they too incur some expenses, but marking up items at what seems to be a 500% increase is absolutely absurd and uncalled for. I won’t even talk about the mark ups placed on healthier food options, but there’s this big mysterious question about why so many Bahamians are sick, dying so young and not getting the proper nutrition. My grammy says it often, “Everything goes up but your salary!”
What other grocery store items leave you with sticker shock?! Post photos to our Facebook page and share your stories.