The latest survey from consumer advocacy group Choice has again anointed Aldi the most affordable supermarket in Australia, with the German grocery giant outpacing Coles and Woolworths by a considerable margin.
Despite minor price fluctuations, the survey found that Coles and Woolworths remain nearly identical in pricing, while Aldi's competitive edge continued to attract more cost-conscious shoppers.
Household staples surveyed
The survey, which compared prices across 104 supermarkets, found that an average basket of 14 common grocery items at Aldi costs A$18 less than at its major rivals.
In the survey, Aldi's basket amounted to A$50.79, with the Woolworths goods less affordable at A$68.70 and the Coles basket bringing up the rear at A$69.91.
IGA, often seen as a more premium option, was the most expensive, with a basket priced at around A$78.95.
Items such as apples, carrots, sliced white bread, flour, pasta, sugar, tea bags, tinned tomatoes, cheese, milk and beef mince were tested in the survey.
The difference between Coles’ and Woolworths’ affordability remained small, though it widened from A$0.75 in March to A$1.21 in June.
Government-commissioned initiative
The survey, part of a federal government initiative to enhance transparency in the sector, also examined price variations when special offers were included.
The report comes during a period of heightened scrutiny of supermarket pricing practices, with the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) taking legal action against Coles and Woolworths over allegations of misleading promotions.
The grocery sector has faced mounting pressure as households continue to grapple with rising costs of living.
Choice’s next supermarket pricing survey is expected to be released in December.