Barbadians stretch budgets, claim rising grocery costs

Barbadians are facing a tough Christmas as skyrocketing food prices, particularly for traditional holiday items like ham, force many to scale back their celebrations. 

Shoppers speaking to Barbados TODAY at supermarkets in St. Michael and Christ Church expressed shock and frustration at the cost of groceries, with some reporting price increases of up to 25 per cent on staple festive foods compared to last year.

Christmas Eve at the supermarkets was not as hectic as in previous years, and the contents of many shopping trolleys suggested that Christmas was bleak for many shoppers.

Two budget supermarkets were less crowded than usual for Christmas Eve.

One shopper described the prices as “ridiculous” particularly the cost of hams: “The prices are too extravagant. You should not be paying nearly $31.99 a pound for no ham. The hams are made here; they’re too expensive.”

She also voiced concern for families struggling to feed their children: “You know how many people can’t afford to feed their children because of the sky-high prices.”

Another shopper, who had packed a small purchase into her vehicle, said she didn’t make any extra purchases for Christmas: “I buy what I accustomed buying, I ain’t change up nothing. You can’t afford to change up so much.”

Shoppers complained that hams are too expensive.

A third shopper, waiting for her transport, also complained about the price of ham: “Last year I paid about $80-something for ham, this year it’s $100 and something for the same small picnic ham. I can’t believe that price. That and the drink prices were a little steep for true from last year as well.”

She said shoppers who have the time to shop around and buy from budget supermarkets can save money; those who don’t must deal with the higher prices at their chosen stores.

“Especially if you working, it does be hard. Somebody who sits down and plans and knows it will be easier for them, but if you come one place it going to be a little pricier than you would expect.”

She was also shocked by the price of another type of ham, which cost over $500. “That’s rent.”

Her advice to Barbadians this Christmas is to be content with what they can afford: “What you can afford, enjoy it. Don’t try to overspend, don’t try to live above your means. What you can afford, enjoy yourself. It’s all about family and being with family.”

Customers also complained about the increase in the prices of drinks this Christmas.

Another shopper, waiting for a taxi with her small load, also criticized the high supermarket prices.

“Nothing gets low, everything high. I can’t manage. You get what you want, food but you can’t do anything else.”

She said this year’s Christmas would be simpler: “Not dressing up and dolling up; this year is a different year.”

She plans to prepare a hearty meal for herself and her daughter, hoping it will last for a while: “Doing lasagna, macaroni pie, rice and peas, lamb stew, baked chicken, spare ribs, vegetables, potato salad, some beets and cucumber too.”

One young woman filling out a Christmas promotion entry form shared her frustration about the prices but remains determined to make the best of it. “I would say I got what I needed. For Christmas I will eat, relax and spend time with family.”

She also shared the menu she plans for her family of 10 on Christmas Day: “Macaroni pie, sweet potato pie, rice and you got baked stuff like rum cake, bread pudding and drinks. 

louriannegraham@barbadostoday.bb