The holiday season brings cheer but also intense shopping pressure. Retailers compete fiercely for consumer dollars during this peak period. While many offer genuine sales, some employ pricing strategies that can feel deceptive or exploitative, bordering on price gouging. Price gouging typically refers to raising prices excessively on essential goods during emergencies. However, during holidays,…
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Advertising is a powerful tool retailers use to attract customers and promote products. Most advertising is informative and truthful. However, some campaigns cross the line into false or misleading territory. They might make unsubstantiated claims, use deceptive imagery, or hide important conditions. This raises a significant question: Should retailers face penalties for engaging in false…
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Grocery delivery services like Instacart offer incredible convenience. You can order essentials from your couch and have them arrive at your doorstep within hours. This saves time and hassle, especially for busy individuals or those with mobility challenges. However, relinquishing control over product selection means relying on a personal shopper to choose items for you.…
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Have you noticed that your favorite snacks, cereals, or household staples don’t seem to last as long as they used to? You’re not imagining it. A growing number of well-known brands are shrinking their product sizes while keeping prices the same—or even raising them. This sneaky strategy is known as shrinkflation, and it’s hitting consumers…
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A few years ago, grabbing a shrink-wrapped pack of ground beef from the grocery store was as routine as picking up bread or milk. But something shifted. Between rising prices, questionable quality, and growing concerns over how meat is produced and handled, I started rethinking where my food was coming from. Eventually, I made a…
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Using SNAP benefits is no longer just about shopping in-store with a plastic EBT card. In 2025, more people than ever are asking: Can I use my SNAP benefits online? Whether you’re juggling work, caring for kids, or avoiding the hassle of crowded stores, being able to order groceries through platforms like Instacart, Walmart Pickup,…
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Fast food gets a bad rap—and often, rightfully so. But here’s a truth that might surprise you: not every drive-thru item is a nutritional disaster. In fact, many registered dietitians admit they’ve got a few go-to choices when they’re short on time and need something satisfying on the go. Whether it’s lower in calories, higher…
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When people talk about regional pride, they usually mean sports teams or hometown food—but don’t underestimate the loyalty people feel for their favorite Southern grocery chains. What started as local staples for sweet tea, fried chicken, and friendly service are now expanding into other states and catching national attention. Some are making their mark with…
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Most shoppers assume that grocery items returned to the store, especially food, are automatically discarded. However, the reality of handling returned goods is complex and sometimes controversial. While safety regulations prohibit reselling certain items, particularly perishables that may have been improperly handled, store policies and practices can vary. The potential for items to be restocked…
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Many restaurants and retailers utilize “secret menus” or offer unadvertised discounts known only to certain customers or those “in the know.” These off-menu options and hidden deals can create buzz and foster a sense of exclusivity among loyal patrons. They often spread through word-of-mouth or online communities, adding an element of discovery to the customer…
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