Supermarket chains and convenience stores operate 30% of the market selling consumer products. The president of the National Supermarket Association, Lancelet Tierra, indicates that the entry of the Government in the business of retail sales has not affected the large size of the business. Competition is healthy and should reach agreements for items such as vegetables and vegetables that have a significant impact on inflation, are sold at fair prices, he adds.
- What is the status of supermarkets and self-service sector? – This year’s consumption of goods and consumer products in stores and supermarkets has been depressed, but we hope that in the remaining months of the year will restore a little drop in sales. There is a decline in consumption due to low wages and price increases. The lack of liquidity that has restricted people shop.
Although we remain a country where branded products are important, people are looking increasingly inexpensive items to pay their money.
- What is the impact of regulated prices in the supermarket sales? – Much of the turnover or the products sold have regulated prices and of course it impacts the business, but we bet to provide a service and to ensure product availability. The government knows the cost of production of each controlled food. In tables we have analyzed the case of beef and expect decisions. Price control is a measure we have to continue to respect and if a product is regulated, it is our duty to have but is not making money off its sale. It is covered with other products that are no longer perceived by the foods covered.
- How is the supply of commodities? – This year has been a great effort to maintain a greater availability of products on the shelves.
In addition, we must recognize that the supermarket sector has participated in meetings with the executive, which constantly evaluates inventories staple foods to avoid shortages.
The failure of some articles is timely. In some regions may lack a product and not in others. Sometimes the consumer notes that there are flaws with regulated prices, food, and when you find it takes longer than you really need. This creates an artificial shortage. This year in general terms there are more products, has improved the supply of meat, milk and coffee. What we see is that there is not much variety.