THE GROCERY TRADE

Southland Times, Issue 19516, 16 May 1922, Page 5

THE GROCERY TRADE

SOME PRICE REDUCTIONS. DROP IN AMERICAN BRANDS. (Special to the Times.) CHRISTCHURCH, May 14. Following on the Arbitration Court’s pronouncement on reductions in the cost of living bonuses paid to workers, the grocers have been looking out for means of reducing the weekly grocery bill. With most lines the present prices are reduced to a very' fine margin of profit, but there is every reason to believe that a reduction will be made in the price of sugar immediately. The present retail price of sugar is 4jd per lb., and the reduction will be at least id per lb. Other small reductions in staple lines may be made during the week. Baking powder will be reduced in price on June 1, but the extent of the reduction has not so far been announced. Recent reductions in cream of tartar costs have led grocers to look for lower prices for baking powders. The wages reduction may also enter into consideration in fixing the new prices. No alteration has taken place in regard to tea. A few weeks ago the wholesale houses were very hopeful of a rise, but they do not appear to be quite so certain of it at the present time. The probability is that there will be neither increases or reductions for some time to come.

The improvement in the exchange rate of the pound sterling has led to substantial reductions in the prices of certain American specialties, such as baked beans, peanuts, butter, etc. The average reduction is 50 per cent. A little price cutting is taking place between soap manufacturers, but the public have not yet received any direct benefit from it. New Zealand tinned tomatoes are selling at exceptionally cheap rates, and good business is being done. The retail rates are about one shilling a tin. Butter, cheese and bacon have not altered in price lately, and the indications are that the present rates will continue throughout the winter. THE MODERN HOUSEWIFE. SUGGESTIONS FOR HOME-FURNISH-INGS. Every Housewife will find much of interest in the latest Shipment of Carpets, Linoleums, etc., opened up by H. & J. Smith Ltd., the Progressive Stores. Wh ;. impresses most is the extremely ■. asonable prices charged for the various lines, big and small. long looked for return to pre-war prices 'and values has arrived, thanks to the enterprise and judicious buying of the Firm. An' overburdened Market and the general tightness of money gave them their opportunity. Apart from the low cost, the superior quality and finish of the goods, they are equal, if not superior to the pre-war article, and carry the guarantee of a recognised English Manufacturing Firm, Beautiful English Axminster squares in various sizes and dainty colourings arrested the attention —Against a pretty background of crimson, blue, fawn, etc., was woven a striking pattern in more sombre colouring, forming a colour contrast which will irresistibly appeal to the woman of taste and discrimination. They truly represent the last word of luxury, the price ranged from 14 guineas. Axminster runere from 11/9 to 18/6 and Axminster Rugs from 25/-. A veritable feast of colour was provided by a bale of TapestryRugs, the quality and finish were excellent. The price 11/6, is sufficient indication that H. & J. Smiths’ are out to cater to the needs aud incidentally to the purses of the careful housewife. The value is exceptional —to use a well worn phrase ‘They are to be seen to be appreciated.’ Dainty little slip mats completed the Carpet Section. Comi ing to linoleums, these were well represented in pretty patterns and soft colours. I The quality was ail Lhal could be desired, ■ ditto the price. A display of exquisite i down Quilts and Cushions harmonised with , the general colour scheme, as also did the I dainty Casement Curtains and cretonnes, i With such a variety Madam will have no difficulty in selecting her favourite colour, with drapings to correspond. You will find it worth while to visit the fashionable Progressive Stores, Tay Street, Invercargill and Main Street, Gore.— (Advt)