DROP IN SUGAR PRICES MAY LEAD TO OTHERS

Press, Volume XCVI, Issue 28435, 15 November 1957, Page 19

DROP IN SUGAR PRICES MAY LEAD TO OTHERS

[By Our Grocery Correspondent]

The grocery trade has ceased to be surprised at alterations in the price of sugar, so frequently have changes been made in the last 12 months. The latest drop, of £2 a ton in the wholesale price, together with the earlier drop, has brought the retail price down id per lb to 9Jd. Manufacturers of commodities with a high sugar content, including jellies, cordials, instant puddings and ice cream bases, put up their prices as sugar prices rose, but so far none has passed on to the public the benefit of the latest reductions. Sugar now retails jd per lb above the price 12 months ago and as the manufacturers’ other costs are probably higher than they were then it is not likely that commodities containing sugar will fall to last year's levels. The manufacturer must, however, find his costs now lower than they were a few months ago and it would not be surprising to see some reduction in the price of these products. Show week has been, as usual, one of the busiest of the year for wholesalers and retailers in Christchurch. The patchy weather had a slightly depressing effect

on trade but most grocers achieved sales figures fairly close to expectations. Peanut Butter Prices.-r-Several manufacturers of peanut butter have announced increased priced, resulting from increased costs of raw materials, plus packaging. The new retail prices for a popular Christchurch brand are: 4oz. Is 8d: Boz. 2s 4d; Boz, 2s lOd. These represent Increases of 2d for the two smaller sizes, and 3d for the larger. Aerosol Bombs.—The annual campaign against flies is now beginning, and today’s housewife is better armed than ever. Increased competition has been noticeable among the manufacturers of insecticides, who have announced bonus offers and other inducements to retailers. There are three new sizes. 6oz. 12oz, and 20oz. and a large number of brands. Grocers are consequently expected to carry heavier stocks than are really necessary. Mint Sauce Concentrate.— A North Island food flavour manufacturer is introducing to the South Island a concentrate with mint as its base. The main use for this product is in mint sauces and jellies, but it can also be used for cold drinks, ice blocks, and even ice cream toppings. The retail price is 3s lid a jar. Dates.—Latest advice is that a direct ship to New Zealand is now unlikely. Transhipment may have to be made—probably at an Australian port. Loose dates are in reasonable supply, but stocks of packets are running low. A long delay could quite easily cause a shortage In the local market. Canned Kumaras and Potatoes.— These two new lines, which are now being packed by an Auckland canner, have had a good reception in Christchurch. The packers advised that stocks are selling fast in the North Island: the 16oz new potatoes have temporarily sold out, and 220 z stocks are limited. The kumaras sell at 2s for the 16oz tins and 2s 7d for the 220 z tins, while the new potatoes retail at Is 7d for the 16oz and 2s Id for the 220 z.