New Grocers Help Keep Lid on Prices, Study Says
- Share via
A new wave of competition among food vendors is holding down prices and saving the typical U.S. family about $500 annually, an Agriculture Department economist said.
Ephraim Leibtag, USDA’s food-price expert, forecast food inflation of 2% to 3% this year, about the same as last year and a relief after the 3.4% rise in prices during 2004.
Over the last few years, old-line grocery chains have faced fast-growing competition from nontraditional retailers that now hold nearly 40% of the grocery market. Leibtag said a survey of prices suggested the new competitors often undercut grocers’ prices.
Inside the business of entertainment
The Wide Shot brings you news, analysis and insights on everything from streaming wars to production — and what it all means for the future.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
