Letter to the editor: Let us see the impact of shrinkflation

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A recent report confirms previous studies and what many shoppers have endured — perhaps unknowingly — for quite some time. The report identifies as much as 20 per cent of products have been the subject of shrinkflation over the last five years. Naturally, getting less product for the same or even higher price means much lower value for consumers, who are already seeing their grocery budgets stretched to or beyond the breaking point.

Federal legislators could implement a solution that is virtually cost-free for the government and consumers. As is the law in some other countries, manufacturers could be mandated to prominently display on labels products that have been affected by shrinkflation, showing the percentage reduction and the resulting increased price per unit (ounce, pound, dozen, etc.).

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Including revised per-unit information would ensure price increases instituted (read: sneaked in) at the same time as size reductions would also be obvious to consumers. They may not boycott the product, but at least they would be armed with better information on which to base continuing purchase decisions or change brands.

How about it, Jagmeet Singh? You’re so seized with fighting for “struggling Canadians,” when will your Dippers introduce such a private member’s bill and force Comrade Justin Trudeau to acquiesce and pass it?

MIKE ALAIN

OTTAWA

NOT RUNNING LIKE A BUSINESS

I could never figure out why The City of Ottawa couldn’t be run like a business. Then someone turned the lights on for me. Here are some things I never considered. When sales are slow for a prolonged period of time, owners consider laying staff off. The city considers the status quo in staffing as the right thing to do. Maybe add a few! In the real world, businesses might consider a reduction of services. On the other hand, the city is involved in far too many services that are not in their purview. Private enterprise is always keeping an eye on expenses. The city not so much.

I’ve been a resident of this city for 75 years and in that time I have never heard a city employee or elected official say, “We made a mistake.” They continue to spend.

In business, you make a mistake and you have no business.

MICHAEL PERREAULT

OTTAWA

HAVE YOUR SAY

Your letters are welcome, at: OttSun.Oped@sunmedia.ca. Include your first and last name AND city/town. Keep your letters short — and please try to be civil, even when criticizing or disagreeing. We edit for accuracy, length, clarity and legal concerns.

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