• Quick and convenient • Goods are displayed well and clearly priced
• You can take your time to browse and select
• Less expensive because they buy in bulk and have lower overheads
• Own brands are particularly cheap • A quick turnover means fresher produce
• Greater choice – wide range of products available
• It is easy to examine and compare products
26.5
• Trolleys make it easier to shop in bulk • Credit cards or cash can be used
How shopping has changed Shopping has changed significantly over the past 50 years. • Many small local shops have closed down. • There are more large shopping centres that offer a ‘one stop shopping’ experience with many retail outlets. Parking is usually available and free with other facilities such as crèches and restaurants.
• Checkouts use barcodes and scanners ( see p. 378) and some shops have self-service checkouts.
• We make less frequent trips to the shops, because we buy in bulk, which is more economical.
• Opening hours have changed: some shops have online stores, some offer late and early opening times, some even have a 24-hour service.
• Payment methods have changed: online and phone buying has increased due to the availability of credit and debit cards. This has also decreased the need for consumers to carry cash, which encourages impulse buying.
• Environmental awareness has increased among consumers. The introduction of the plastic bag levy and electrical recycling charge has forced retailers to become more environmentally aware, choosing fair trade and organic products that appeal to consumers ( see p. 102).
• A higher awareness of nutrition has led to more detailed labels and increased availability of ‘healthy’ meal options in take-away outlets.
Disadvantages
• Greater temptation to impulse buy • Less personal • Queues at checkouts especially at peak times
• You may have to pack your own groceries
• Can be difficult to buy small amounts • May need a car for out-of-town shopping
• Can be difficult for older people to find what they need
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Strand 2: Responsible Family Living Section 3: Competent Consumers
