Countdown claims $70m in savings

Acting managing director Steve Donohue says the Price Lockdown and Price Drop programmes are permanent savings.

Nevil Gibson for NBR Food Industry Week
Fri, 17 Apr 2015

Countdown says long-term price reductions on more than 1000 everyday products have saved shoppers over $70 million.

Acting managing director Steve Donohue says the Price Lockdown and Price Drop programmes are permanent savings.

“These reduced prices aren’t sales promotions, or one-offs. We are reducing prices for the long-term, on products Kiwis buy most often,” he says.

In February, Countdown cut the price of Homebrand Nappies 44-60 pack nappies from $19.90 to $15, saving shoppers $1 million a year.

Lockdown price reductions include frozen peas, flour, sausages, pita bread, tinned tomatoes, detergent, laundry powder and paper towels.

“From $1 bread, to $10 for a 24 pack of Signature Range water, these long-term reductions are making a real difference,” Mr Donohue says.

Grocery food prices fell 2.3% in the year to February 2015, latest Statistics New Zealand figures show (FIW 966, March 16).

Mr Donohue says more savings can be expected in the near future.

Nevil Gibson for NBR Food Industry Week
Fri, 17 Apr 2015