Before I begin, I’d like to add that there are certain stores that will calculate the math of the product like $ per [unit of measurement]. The unit of measurement varies from ounces to pounds to piece, like a roll of paper towel. I love checking it out because it allows you to make the best purchase decision. If I remember correctly, I originally began seeing it either at Costco or BJ’s Wholesale club. Since then, I always make an effort to read the price tags.
The other day I was in Wholefoods Market with my family utilizing the American Express Sync offer of $10 off $75 purchase. While there, I was perusing the aisles and came upon something that made zero sense to me and this is why you need to pay attention when you make your purchases.
See how it is $3.97 per pound
See how this one is $3.59 a pound? Cheaper when you buy the 12 oz box compared to the 6 oz
Notice how the “deluxe” version is $4.56 a pound and is 14 oz
$4.51 a pound for the shells and cheese at a 6 oz box
$5.32 a pound for the “deluxe” for 12 oz of shells and cheese
Notice the largest box costs more in $ / pound. Meanwhile, the smaller boxes are cheaper. I’ve seen this in CVS when I replenish my candy for my candy tray. Just because Wholefoods places the moniker of “deluxe” and “creamy” increases the box weight to 14 oz does not automatically mean you’re getting a better deal. If you wanted to make your mac and cheese creamier, just add more milk.
So the next time you shop, regardless of store, you should do a price per unit math to figure out what your best deal is.
My guess is the “deluxe” uses liquid cheese sauce, like in those really creepy “Liquid Gold” Velveeta commercials. The other stuff is that crappy powdered cheese.
I too analyze the unit prices, but paper towels are the devil, they do “area” or “per 100 sheets”(always looks good on the Select-a-size) or “per roll”. It is hard to compare between product and/or stores sometimes.
I couldn’t tell you looking at the outside of the boxes on the product – but I bet you’re right.
I can’t remember seeing anything like that, but it does make the math complicated!
My guess is that stores are frequently doing AB testing, changing the relative prices of the regular and bulk sizes and observing the results. I’ve seen pictures of this at target as well.
I wouldn’t be surprised if a large portion of customers don’t look at the price-per-ounce and just assume they’ll be getting a better deal for the larger box. Just maybe a few cents more for the customer, but that will translate to millions for the retailer.
I wouldn’t be surprised either – I have been under the impression of bulk purchasing would be cheaper, but after seeing that, I am keeping an eye out on the price breakdowns