Woolworths shoppers have found themselves embroiled in a pricing mystery within the olive aisle: pitted, stuffed olives sell for less than half the price of their whole counterparts.
This unexpected pricing (no specials, everyday price) anomaly has stirred curiosity and speculation among consumers, who are baffled by the disparity.
While a standard 450g glass jar of whole olives commands a premium price, stuffed olives are being sold at a fraction of the cost. Both say 'Product of Spain' and appear to contain identical variety of olives.
Notably, a 935g jar of pitted, stuffed olives is priced at $4.50, matching the price of a 450g jar of unpitted whole olives.
Consumers are left wondering how this could be the more economical option on the shelves, given the additional labor and ingredients required to pit and stuff olives.
This counterintuitive pricing has prompted speculation and even conspiracy theories among some shoppers, who even suggest hidden government-subsidized additives may be at play.
However, an industry expert, who wished to remain anonymous due to involvement in importing similar products to Australia, suggests a more mundane explanation rooted in market dynamics.
"While the price difference may seem perplexing at first glance, it's more likely to be a reflection of market forces and Woolworths' strategic pricing decisions," the expert said.
"If other stores or brands offer stuffed olives at lower prices, Woolworths may price their stuffed olives more competitively to match or beat competitors, even if it means a smaller margin on that product. Or if stuffed olives are in higher demand, Woolworths might be willing to accept lower margins on them due to the volume of sales, whereas whole olives might have a niche market willing to pay more."
As consumers continue to ponder this pricing puzzle, the olive aisle remains a captivating enigma, inviting speculation and intrigue.
Have you noticed similar unusual pricing quirks? Or do you have further insights into this mystery? Drop us a line to share your thoughts and experiences.
