Norwich shops say rising food costs hit sellers and shoppers

According to the latest Office for National Statistics (ONS) figures food prices in the UK are increasing at their fastest pace since the 1980s, rising by 14.6pc for the year to September 2022.

And Norwich's independent grocery sellers say the city has been hit hard by increasing costs - fuelled by factors including Brexit, Covid and war in Ukraine - with shopkeepers struggling to keep costs down and shoppers buying less.

Mike Read of Mike, Debs and Sons in Norwich Market said he had noticed an increase in customers coming to buy in small amounts.

He said: "We're not as cheap as supermarkets but when people come here they just get what they want rather than buying large bags.

"It's so difficult in our industry, everything has become so expensive.

"As well as food prices you've got transport to add on top.

"It's been mental since Brexit. Everyone who voted for it is now paying the price and those who didn't are as well."

At Family Food Store in Plumstead Road, owner Yassine Rashid, agreed it had been hard but hoped to continue to offer the special deals his shop has become known for.

Mr Rashid said: "From small shops to supermarkets it's hard for everyone.

"But we'll try to keep our prices the same. There are some things we can't but overall we'll be cutting our profit to keep prices the same for customers.

"It really is crazy now to run a shop."

Financial expert Martyn James said shoppers should be looking at what they are throwing away and making sure they either buy only what they need or items with long dates.

His other tips included using loyalty cards, making a shopping list and sticking to it, and shopping outside of the city centre to avoid what he called "city tax".

Mr James said: "I cannot believe in 2022 I’m having to talk about saving money by making hard choices about things we need to live.

"It’s clear that much more needs to be done to help the people who are struggling the most."