Farmers Call Out Supermarkets Over High Fruit and Veg Prices

A major farmers' group is putting supermarkets on the spot, asking why fruit and vegetable prices are still climbing despite inflation easing.

Last month, the Australian Bureau of Statistics reported inflation had dropped to a three-year low of 3.3%. But oddly enough, fruit and vegetable prices have jumped 6.3% in 2024. That’s not sitting well with farmers.

NSW Farmers Association’s horticulture chair, Jo Brighenti-Barnard, isn’t buying the supermarkets’ excuses.

“For years, we were told inflation was driving up grocery prices. But now that inflation is coming down, why aren’t prices dropping too?” she asked.

She’s concerned that big supermarkets are using their market power—and factors like supply shortages and seasonality—to keep prices high, padding their profits while farmers and families struggle.

“The cost of living is a big talking point for politicians, but we need real action to help farmers and families just trying to put food on the table,” she added.

She’s also calling for stronger oversight of supermarkets, just as the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) is getting ready to release its findings on grocery pricing next month.

Supermarkets Respond

Supermarkets, of course, have their own take on the situation.

A Coles spokesperson said the chain is committed to providing “value for customers while ensuring fair returns for our farmers.”

They also pointed out that fruit and veg prices are influenced by supply and demand, seasonal variations, and disruptions in the supply chain.

Aldi echoed that sentiment, saying they constantly review pricing to offer the best value.

“We always aim to deliver the best value to our customers while keeping pricing fair for our business partners,” an Aldi spokesperson said.

Woolworths, meanwhile, assured customers that price drops do get passed on—eventually.

“The price of fruit and veg in our stores is driven by what we pay for produce, which can change due to weather, seasonality, supply, and demand,” a Woolworths representative explained.

So, What’s Next?

With the ACCC set to release its report soon, farmers are hoping for more transparency and fairer pricing. But for now, shoppers are left wondering—if inflation is easing, why aren’t their grocery bills?