Were getting the short end at grocery stores

[karostay]

This weeks food circular back home.

https://static1.squarespace.com/static/55bf945ce4b0d2eb6c65b901/t/59d69aa9d55b4131d0ac15b5/1507236523608/FC_ME_1006.pdf

Just left Winn Dixe without buying a thing
just shaking my head.

[PattyCakes]

No argument from me. When I visit friends in Georgia I'm always amazed at the prices in THEIR Publix stores. Makes you wonder, doesn't it?

[Happy Snowbird]

I shop Aldis and Wal-mart. Only go to Publix or Winn Dixie if they have a good meat sale. Otherwise I get meat at Sams Club. I can't imagine what a cart full of groceries must cost at Publix or WD. We went to WD to get a bag of some type of snack ( chips, etc). They were more than double the cost from Aldis.....didn’t buy them. Some people prefer the real grocery store atmosphere of Publix and WD. It's great that we have options.

[Villager Joyce]

Groceries are cheaper. What about weather? Crime? Golf? Lifestyle? If you don’t care about lifestyle choices and only care about cheap groceries, don’t let the door hit ya where the good lord split ya.

[skip0358]

:bigbow::bigbow:Groceries are cheaper. What about weather? Crime? Golf? Lifestyle? If you don’t care about lifestyle choices and only care about cheap groceries, don’t let the door hit ya where the good lord split ya.

[Topspinmo]

Groceries are cheaper. What about weather? Crime? Golf? Lifestyle? If you don’t care about lifestyle choices and only care about cheap groceries, don’t let the door hit ya where the good lord split ya.

So, what's your saying get gouged here or there. So, there not any have your cake and eat it too?:1rotfl:

[Villager Joyce]

So, what's your saying get gouged here or there. So, there not any have your cake and eat it too?:1rotfl:

When I lived in Orlando, I worked for the biggest law firm in Florida. One of the assistants found out the counterparts in the Miami Office were making 20% more than we were making. My answer was then move to Miami. There are good and bad things about everywhere. Pick the ones you can live with or without and go from there.

[Halibut]

I haven't lived anywhere that had weekly BOGO deals, so they're a big plus for me on pantry staples and non-perishables. Half off brings prices below Walmart. I don't buy enough in bulk to justify the $45 annual fee at Sam's Club and am not driving 18 miles round trip to Aldis.

When I lived in Hawaii, I'd get agro every time I went grocery shopping. Yes yes, transportation costs, but it was still ridiculously spendy. San Francisco was expensive as well. Northern MN offered double coupons but that was a hassle to organize.

Long way around to say that, all things considered, I'm very satisfied with the choices and prices for groceries here.

FWIW, here's a cost of living comparison for TV vs one of the cities I picked at random from the linked flyer, Turners Falls, MA.

Cost of Living Comparison: compare The Villages, Florida to Turners Falls, Massachusetts (http://www.bestplaces.net/cost-of-living/the-villages-fl/turners-falls-ma/50000)

[Hancle704]

This weeks food circular back home.

https://static1.squarespace.com/static/55bf945ce4b0d2eb6c65b901/t/59d69aa9d55b4131d0ac15b5/1507236523608/FC_ME_1006.pdf

Just left Winn Dixe without buying a thing
just shaking my head.

How do your taxes here compare to "back home"?

[Hancle704]

I haven't lived anywhere that had weekly BOGO deals, so they're a big plus for me on pantry staples and non-perishables. Half off brings prices below Walmart. I don't buy enough in bulk to justify the $45 annual fee at Sam's Club and am not driving 18 miles round trip to Aldis.

When I lived in Hawaii, I'd get agro every time I went grocery shopping. Yes yes, transportation costs, but it was still ridiculously spendy. San Francisco was expensive as well. Northern MN offered double coupons but that was a hassle to organize.

Long way around to say that, all things considered, I'm very satisfied with the choices and prices for groceries here.

FWIW, here's a cost of living comparison for TV vs one of the cities I picked at random from the linked flyer, Turners Falls, MA.

Cost of Living Comparison: compare The Villages, Florida to Turners Falls, Massachusetts (http://www.bestplaces.net/cost-of-living/the-villages-fl/turners-falls-ma/50000)
No mention of taxes in Turner Falls compared to TV.

[JSR22]

How do your taxes here compare to "back home"?

Over 12,000 to under 2,300. TV is a bargain.

[affald]

People saying, "don't let the door hit you on the way out" and other snide remarks don't really add anything or answer the questions.

If taxes, utilities, wages are lower here... then why are groceries higher.

Are there some monopolistic forces at play or is it simply economy of scale?

A reply from someone with real knowledge would be appreciated.

Long ago someone said the area is monopolistically controlled, but I forget the details.

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

I always find it interesting that Publix is the most expensive of all the supermarkets in the region, but are the most successful. They have the most customers and most sales. I guess a lot of people put service, selection, and cleanliness of the store above price.

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

People saying, "don't let the door hit you on the way out" and other snide remarks don't really add anything or answer the questions.

If taxes, utilities, wages are lower here... then why are groceries higher.

Are there some monopolistic forces at play or is it simply economy of scale?

A reply from someone with real knowledge would be appreciated.

Long ago someone said the area is monopolistically controlled, but I forget the details.

I don't know for sure, but it could be that real estate and rentals are more expensive in The Villages. I don't know if the same with the Publix and Winn Dixie stores 50 miles from here but it could also be that those stores pay higher wages and have better employee benefits than others. I know Publix does.

But I think that it's more likely what the market will bear. Every retailer tries to set their prices at a level that will give them the highest return on their investment at the same time retaining a good customer base. In other words, they will price things as high as they can until people start shopping elsewhere. Stores in areas with higher income levels will charge more for the same products than stores in low income areas.


I don't understand how there is any kind of monopoly going on here. We have a choice of several grocery stores to choose from.

[affald]

I don't know for sure, but it could be that real estate and rentals are more expensive in The Villages. I don't know if the same with the Publix and Winn Dixie stores 50 miles from here but it could also be that those stores pay higher wages and have better employee benefits than others. I know Publix does.

But I think that it's more likely what the market will bear. Every retailer tries to set their prices at a level that will give them the highest return on their investment at the same time retaining a good customer base. In other words, they will price things as high as they can until people start shopping elsewhere. Stores in areas with higher income levels will charge more for the same products than stores in low income areas.


I don't understand how there is any kind of monopoly going on here. We have a choice of several grocery stores to choose from.Someone said the monopolistic practices were at the distributor level.

Wish I could find that post.


Yes, Publix treats it's employees well.

[Bogie Shooter]

People saying, "don't let the door hit you on the way out" and other snide remarks don't really add anything or answer the questions.

If taxes, utilities, wages are lower here... then why are groceries higher.

Are there some monopolistic forces at play or is it simply economy of scale?

A reply from someone with real knowledge would be appreciated.

Long ago someone said the area is monopolistically controlled, but I forget the details.

Real knowledge here? :a040:

[sallybowron]

Groceries are cheaper. What about weather? Crime? Golf? Lifestyle? If you don’t care about lifestyle choices and only care about cheap groceries, don’t let the door hit ya where the good lord split ya.

I am not sure why people think that the price of groceries should be higher due to the amenities we get here. The food prices benefit the grocery stores not the developer. When you see the prices in other states and other parts of this state it would be hard to believe that they are not gouging us a bit. :boom:

Publix - Weekly Ad - Ocala (http://weeklyad.publix.com/Publix/BrowseByPage/Index/?StoreID=2500320&PromotionCode=Publix-171005&PromotionViewMode=1#PageNumber=1)

[mtdjed]

I continue to be amazed at how intolerant some posters are of someone's observation on different subjects. Why the necessity of demeaning the person for making an accurate observation? It discourages folks from posting informative information. Food is more expensive here. It does not mean that the person should go back to the place where they were referencing. What would be a good response was someone explaining why it is more expensive. Explaining that Publix is cleaner and pays employees better may not be the correct answer since we likely do not know wages and cleanliness of the original posters area.

[maryanna630]

I agree...why should someone be demeaned for an accurate assessment of food prices? I also have noted that dentists are more expensive as are veterinarians. i am sure I will be flamed for this observation...and I don't see what that has to do with taxes, amenities etc. My auto insuranc is higher here as well and when I questioed Geico I was told it was because of the high number of accidents and the number of uninsured motorists. We will see what flaming I get....

[tagjr1]

Turner Falls MA? You're comparing Turner Falls MA to the Villages? Did you even google Turner Falls MA? Population of less than 5000 compared to, what, 116k? Have you ever been to western MA? Sometimes I wonder about the participants on this site.

[jimmemac]

My grocery bill is usually about 25% higher here but just as bad is the fact that the fruits, vegetables and meats are not as high quality either so we loose two ways.

[CassieInVa]

Wow, I'm surprised anyone has the nerve to even make an observation like this - given the snarky responses. I can't imagine what some of these posters would be like if conversing in person. Do they jump on the other person because they mention that the cost of groceries seem high here? Where is the give and take with these folks? Where is the open-minded discussion?

Sure glad most people here in The Villages are not the "my way or the highway" types that frequent these boards. Instead of a normal discussion, here it's "don't let the door hit you" or "stop whining".

And, my two cents about the groceries. The produce here is horrible. Clementines were mouldy inside less than 24 hours from purchase and out of a couple dozen heads of lettuce, I could not find even ONE that was not brown in parts. This was this week at Sumter Winn Dixie. Looking forward to trying the new Aldis and Wal-Mart.

Sent from my KFTHWA using Tapatalk HD

[CFrance]

I am not sure why people think that the price of groceries should be higher due to the amenities we get here. The food prices benefit the grocery stores not the developer. When you see the prices in other states and other parts of this state it would be hard to believe that they are not gouging us a bit. :boom:

Publix - Weekly Ad - Ocala (http://weeklyad.publix.com/Publix/BrowseByPage/Index/?StoreID=2500320&PromotionCode=Publix-171005&PromotionViewMode=1#PageNumber=1)
But I think her point was that yes, groceries are higher than somewhere else, but there are many other things that are lower/better than that same somewhere else. She's not saying you should pay more for groceries. She's not saying that's why you pay more for groceries. She's just saying pick your poison. I'll take the higher grocery prices in view of the fact that I love the rest of it that I didn't have back wherever.

[rubicon]

It is difficult to compare prices with any precision in one state /region. etc to another because is a moving target.

However we ( my wife and I) don't live there we live here and here is our only concern as to taxes, fees, food prices, etc

In our view the responsibility rests with us as consumers. My wife has always carefully charted out what is available at every store clothing, grocery etc. Its pains taking work and it requires continual observation and going to more than one store to shop.

Personal Best Regards:

[Villager Joyce]

We shop sales. Generally we shop Aldi for fresh veggies and salads, Publix for BOGOs, Winn Dixie for frozen vegetarian products, and Walmart for staples. We buy the gas cards from Publix. The sales papers and knowing the stores determines the day to day purchases.

[Wing-nut2]

How about that state income tax? That taking a bit out of you too? If living in the North is so great, why did you move here?

[karostay]

Gee and Hannaford owns Winn Dixie



Weekly Flyer | Hannaford (http://www.hannaford.com/catalog/weekly_flyer.cmd)

[l2ridehd]

It's very difficult to have a discussion on this forum without idiots taking pot shots at you. So many have gone to limiting or no posts because of it. So the quality of any topic suffers.

Grocery prices are much higher here in the Villages. I believe about 25% higher. And the quality of most fresh items is terrible. As an experiment I took my Publics grocery receipt and went to my former store web site which has an online shopping list tool which allows specific store selection for item availability and one weeks list was 18% and the following week was 23% less. A bit of a challenge to compare because sale items were different, and we all select sale items when we are actually in the store. That is why I believe the real difference is closer to 25%. And I can guarantee the quality of fresh items is significantly better in my former store.

Doesn't mean other things are more or less or I want to move for better groceries, just does create a question as to why. In my case it's not possible it's wages or real estate. Maybe transportation? Maybe competition? But it sure makes you wonder.

[affald]

It's very difficult to have a discussion on this forum without idiots taking pot shots at you. So many have gone to limiting or no posts because of it. So the quality of any topic suffers.

Grocery prices are much higher here in the Villages. I believe about 25% higher. And the quality of most fresh items is terrible. As an experiment I took my Publics grocery receipt and went to my former store web site which has an online shopping list tool which allows specific store selection for item availability and one weeks list was 18% and the following week was 23% less. A bit of a challenge to compare because sale items were different, and we all select sale items when we are actually in the store. That is why I believe the real difference is closer to 25%. And I can guarantee the quality of fresh items is significantly better in my former store.

Doesn't mean other things are more or less or I want to move for better groceries, just does create a question as to why. In my case it's not possible it's wages or real estate. Maybe transportation? Maybe competition? But it sure makes you wonder.With all these smart villagers, some must have been in the grocery business. Tell us the reason, the local secrets.

The op is correct and people that bash should save that anger for the political forum. Up north you get much better sales... i.e. polly-o mozzarella for $1.99, once in a while.

[Polar Bear]

It's very difficult to have a discussion on this forum without idiots taking pot shots at you...
Welcome to life on internet forums. ToTV is not unique.

[Wing-nut2]

Florida is a peninsula. That means everything must be brought into the state by truck, boat or by train. That costs more money because of the distance involved. The cost is past on to the buyer. It's a little like living on an island. We don't grow much in Florida. We do have cattle and sugar cane. We don't manufacture much here. We once had oranges but that's not what it once was. Floridas big thing is tourists and retirees. If the prices are aimed at The Villages only, then I think that might be because of what The Villages charges any store on its property to do business. Again, that gets passed on.

[Polar Bear]

Florida is a peninsula. That mean everything must be brought into the state by truck, boat or by train...
What?

[ColdNoMore]

Florida is a peninsula. That means everything must be brought into the state by truck, boat or by train. That costs more money.

The cost is past on to the buyer. It's a little like living on an island. We don't grow much in Florida. We do have cattle and sugar cane. We don't manufacture much here. We once had oranges but that's not what it once was. Floridas big thing is tourists and retirees. If the prices are aimed at The Villages only, then I think that might be because of what The Villages charges any store on its property to do business. Again, that gets passed on.

Say what?! :oops:

So how are goods brought into states...that are not a 'peninsula?'

[mtdjed]

Florida does have cattle but from what I understand, there are few cattle processed into food here. Have read that many are sent elsewhere for fattening and processing.

[New Englander]

Say what?! :oops:

So how are goods brought into states...that are not a 'peninsula?'

Trucks, boats, trains. :D

[Chi-Town]

Trucks, boats, trains. :DSometimes [emoji574]



Sent from my VS995 using Tapatalk

[slipcovers]

Florida, like Cape Cod, is mostly seasonal residents and tourists. Therefore, the overhead is higher in off season verses income.

I really don't find TV prices higher than the rest of Florida, or "back home"

As for Turners Falls, it is an old mill town with high unemployment, run down houses, looked like most on welfare. We did a foliage trip and stopped at the grocery store mentioned by OP. Old, run down, and dirty.
To compare it to Publix, night and day. Even restroom was filthy.

[CWGUY]

What?

:agree:

[dillywho]

But I think her point was that yes, groceries are higher than somewhere else, but there are many other things that are lower/better than that same somewhere else. She's not saying you should pay more for groceries. She's not saying that's why you pay more for groceries. She's just saying pick your poison. I'll take the higher grocery prices in view of the fact that I love the rest of it that I didn't have back wherever.

:BigApplause:

[asianthree]

Groceries are the same for us no matter what. Course I’m the one still shopping online that nobody believes I buy 80% of my groceries.

I get free shipping, any sales on that day, and even coupons are applied. Groceries on my doorstep in a matter of hours or 2 day ship. Either way I know exactly what I’m paying and the app tells me if I can buy it cheaper somewhere else.

I don’t have to fight the crowds stand in lines and basically have more time in my life to enjoy. When we are out and about, We shop Trader Joe’s, and Costco. Off campus grocery’s are cheaper.

[JoMar]

Some subjects, as this one, isn't posted to provide solutions.....because aside from spending your life shopping at other stores, there isn't one, but is posted to either see how many are in agreement and how many offer a wider view. The usual suggestion to move is normal, not unusual but also accomplishes nothing. TOTV with few exceptions is an adversarial board....so it's important we cool our jets, it is what it is.

[dillywho]

We shop sales. Generally we shop Aldi for fresh veggies and salads, Publix for BOGOs, Winn Dixie for frozen vegetarian products, and Walmart for staples. We buy the gas cards from Publix. The sales papers and knowing the stores determines the day to day purchases.

Exactly. It is also called comparison shopping and knowing the prices from store to store. Walmart is not always the cheapest, but often the highest. I buy one staple at Publix for $2.59, even sometimes 2/$4.00; the same staple at Walmart is $2.78 always. Publix has items that Walmart does not carry; Walmart has items that Publix does not carry. Another poster was right about the BOGO's, too. That will bring the prices way down. I just don't understand the people that will only buy one on the BOGO's. Take both and share with someone like a neighbor or a food bank. It isn't costing anymore. On the two-for items, you only have to buy one at Publix to get the discounted price; other places, you have to buy two or pay full price. I go to Aldi's, if and when, I am in the area of Aldi's. Publix is right around the corner and Walmart is almost as close. No Winn Dixie is close.

It all pretty much comes down to preference. What I prefer is not what someone else prefers and vice-versa. As a side note, we always paid less for seafood "back home" in cattle country than when we would come to Florida to visit family before we moved here or even knew The Villages existed. And besides, they live on the east coast of Florida. At one time, we owned a vacation home in Destin, FL, on the gulf. Same thing. I never have figured that one out.

[perrjojo]

The add posted was from Food City. Isn’t that a discount food store similar to the Aldis concept?

[Barefoot]

But I think her point was that yes, groceries are higher than somewhere else, but there are many other things that are lower/better than that same somewhere else. She's not saying you should pay more for groceries. She's not saying that's why you pay more for groceries. She's just saying pick your poison. I'll take the higher grocery prices in view of the fact that I love the rest of it that I didn't have back wherever.

Some subjects, as this one, isn't posted to provide solutions.....because aside from spending your life shopping at other stores, there isn't one, but is posted to either see how many are in agreement and how many offer a wider view. The usual suggestion to move is normal, not unusual but also accomplishes nothing. TOTV with few exceptions is an adversarial board....so it's important we cool our jets, it is what it is.
:agree:

[bonrich]

Well, jumping in, we live up north, NYS, southwest of Buffalo. Have a home in TV and look forward to spend the winter months there. Positive all the way with one exception, grocery shopping. Food is more expensive here, the quality of fresh fruits and vegetables Is lacking. But we are willing to trade off for the sunshine, etc. our major vendors are Wegmans, Tops, and Aldis. Wegmans best for fruits and veggies. Cheese joiners are numerous to say the least. Olive bar could supply a appetizer night at your home. When in season they use local farms for produce, sweet corn, melons, squash, tomatoes, string beans, etc,etc. They also deal with Organic farms to satisfy that need. Tops Mkts are big, they have just about everything you need or look for. Vast selection, BIG SALES, Bogor, etc. And of course we all know Aldis.
Do we miss Wegmans? of course, do we miss horizontal snow? You betcha!!
PS: I miss the star ruby grapefruit. Big, deep red interior, and incredibly juicy. Wegmans always has those.

[Topspinmo]

I thought produce would taste better down here, IMO NOT. The dirt is missing something????

[Paper1]

People saying, "don't let the door hit you on the way out" and other snide remarks don't really add anything or answer the questions.

If taxes, utilities, wages are lower here... then why are groceries higher.

Are there some monopolistic forces at play or is it simply economy of scale?

A reply from someone with real knowledge would be appreciated.

Long ago someone said the area is monopolistically controlled, but I forget the details.

Pricing on everything, including groceries, is based on whatever the market can bear. Average income in Villages is above most communities it’s size so it can bear more. Only competition and desire for market share impacts that.

[Henryk]

Florida is a peninsula. That means everything must be brought into the state by truck, boat or by train. That costs more money because of the distance involved. ...

Gee, Jim. The only thing you left out is delivery by air. So I think the delivery mechanism is apples-to-apples, don't you agree?

[rlcooper70]

In New England we have Market Basket .... they have no debt and are selling food for the same price that it costs Stop and Shop to buy it (when their debt payments are factored in). So we know what good pricing is about.

We have experienced that WD is worse than Public but nowhere as good as Market Basket. Part of the cost of living in Florida. Yet the cost of the restaurants in TV is half of Boston so we consider it all a trade. Its a mind game.

[sam&rog]

Where else can you shop in Turners without driving miles? Greenfield? Nhamp? Guess you are on your back north now for the cheap groceries.

[Spikearoni]

How about that state income tax? That taking a bit out of you too? If living in the North is so great, why did you move here?

We have NO SALES TAX and NO INCOME TAX in NH. However, it gets mighty cold in the winter so we enjoy our time in TV from January until May. Despite the higher cost for groceries and the sales taxes we incur, we are very happy to be in a nice climate at that time of year.

[Susan Schonfeld]

South Florida had a lot of markets and vegetable fruit stands. Can’t believe with all the farms they aren’t any good ones here. We need competition.

[toeser]

I am a snowbird. Publix and Winn-Dixie would be eaten alive by competitors in my summer home.

[photo1902]

South Florida had a lot of markets and vegetable fruit stands. Can’t believe with all the farms they aren’t any good ones here. We need competition.

The Brownwood farmers market offers a lot of choices for good veggies, breads, etc. In addition, the Market of Marion has a large assortment of vegetables, as well as the Lady Lake farmers market on 441 (just south of 466), which is open every Tuesday.

[asianthree]

I do container gardening just because it’s quick and easy and you don’t have to bend over. Bumper crop of tomatoes, cucumbers, lettuce and herbs. Zucchini and squash out of control. Radishes I plant every two weeks, my carrots and potatoes are on their second planting. I quick freeze what we don’t eat right away. Our veggies are virtually free since I’m using heirloom seeds, dry them and replant. Mine look better than anything at the farmers market.

[justjim]

People have a tendency to say “Prices” are high wherever they live and perhaps retirees with “time on hand” even more so. Just saying.......

[affald]

People have a tendency to say “Prices” are high wherever they live and perhaps retirees with “time on hand” even more so. Just saying.......It's not the heat, it's the humidity.

[Polar Bear]

I am a snowbird. Publix and Winn-Dixie would be eaten alive by competitors in my summer home.
Mine's better than yours.

[OhioBuckeye]

I agree with most of the post about WD & Publix. But both have their good deals sometime & at least Publix have great pastries. WD I can't say. I always got to Wal Mart to buy groceries. like cereal, I like LIFE, my wife likes RAISIN BRAN. Life cereal is $3.00 a box, WD & Publix for Life cereal is $4.79 a box, Raisin Bran, is $3.79 a box & for the same size box at Wal Mart is $2.58. Half gal. of milk at Wal Mart is less than $2.00. Publix & WD just see a bunch of old people who'll buy anything at any price. Personally I think this is the way everything in The Villages is. Used to be you could live like a millionaire here, now you've got to be a millionaire to live here. Just my opinion!

[CFrance]

We have NO SALES TAX and NO INCOME TAX in NH. However, it gets mighty cold in the winter so we enjoy our time in TV from January until May. Despite the higher cost for groceries and the sales taxes we incur, we are very happy to be in a nice climate at that time of year.
You've got the best of both worlds!

[lakeoscawana]

I worked in the Supermarket business in NY for 25 years. The circular you posted from Food City is a very aggressive one with great prices. If you think Winn Dixie has high prices, try looking at Publix prices. Their shelf prices are equivalent to our NYC prices! They sell chicken breasts for $5.99lb!! I wrote to Publix and asked them why their retails are so high? They responded by telling me that many items are shipped from the north and the shipping/gas costs are high! I guess they don't have chickens in the south! They also offer 1c deals and Senior Discounts in their other stores, but NOT in Florida?? Guess there are too many seniors here.

[mrfixit99]

New ALDI coming to 466A where LOWES is under construction close to Pinnelas

[CFrance]

I can't wait till Aldi's opens, and I hope they have the Seedtastic bread my DIL served us for lunch in Indianapolis. Really good!

[Henryk]

I do container gardening just because it’s quick and easy and you don’t have to bend over. Bumper crop of tomatoes, cucumbers, lettuce and herbs. Zucchini and squash out of control. Radishes I plant every two weeks, my carrots and potatoes are on their second planting. I quick freeze what we don’t eat right away. Our veggies are virtually free since I’m using heirloom seeds, dry them and replant. Mine look better than anything at the farmers market.

Wow! I'm impressed! I would love to see your garden some time.

[pauld315]

I can't wait till Aldi's opens, and I hope they have the Seedtastic bread my DIL served us for lunch in Indianapolis. Really good!

There is already one open on 441, I would assume the new one will carry the same products. You can check now to see if it will have the bread you mentioned

[autumnspring]

Florida does have cattle but from what I understand, there are few cattle processed into food here. Have read that many are sent elsewhere for fattening and processing.

The old television story is simply not so if it ever was.
It is mass production.
The calf is born and raised to a certain size by one producer and then it is sold to another BUSINESS to be brought to final size. It is then sold again to the BUSINESS that will slaughter it, remove the guts and it is sold again as a side of beef.

You can buy a side of beef and cut it up yourself saving that cost but you will end up with a lot of meat that you may not want to eat. It is a lot of work and you will need a freezer in which to store it

[pooh]

Food is cheaper than where we lived before moving here. (So is gasoline, property tax, sales tax, auto registration to name a few other things. )

[CFrance]

/// Sorry. this is what happens when I only read the top sentence! Good idea to check Aldi's on 441 for the bread.

[Madelaine Amee]

/// Sorry. this is what happens when I only read the top sentence! Good idea to check Aldi's on 441 for the bread.

Aldi's has the bread and their European seasonal products are arriving.

[CFrance]

Aldi's has the bread and their European seasonal products are arriving.
Thanks!

[Madelaine Amee]

Thanks!

If you like Aldi's bread you might like to try Dave's Killer Bread in Publix. I went to the Woman's Seminar in Orlando and their company was there sampling their bread, it is unbelievably delicious. I went back for three slices and then they shut me off! The story behind this bread is quite something: Dave's Killer Bread | Organic, Non-GMO Project Verified Whole Grain Bread (http://www.daveskillerbread.com/#breakfast-slide)

[CFrance]

If you like Aldi's bread you might like to try Dave's Killer Bread in Publix. I went to the Woman's Seminar in Orlando and their company was there sampling their bread, it is unbelievably delicious. I went back for three slices and then they shut me off! The story behind this bread is quite something: Dave's Killer Bread | Organic, Non-GMO Project Verified Whole Grain Bread (http://www.daveskillerbread.com/#breakfast-slide)
I see it's down by me too. Is it in the freezer or out on the shelf? Looks good.

[Bigben007]

I can't believe 8 pages on food Prices! I guess there's not much going on.

[perrjojo]

I love Dave’s Good Seed Bread.

[Chatbrat]

Everyone, who moved here from the suburbs of NY, NJ & Ct-knows they're living for nothing compared to the state income taxes, school taxes, property taxes,sales taxes, insurance--honestly TV is a bargain

[pooh]

If you like Aldi's bread you might like to try Dave's Killer Bread in Publix. I went to the Woman's Seminar in Orlando and their company was there sampling their bread, it is unbelievably delicious. I went back for three slices and then they shut me off! The story behind this bread is quite something: Dave's Killer Bread | Organic, Non-GMO Project Verified Whole Grain Bread (http://www.daveskillerbread.com/#breakfast-slide)

LOVE this bread....and their raisin bread and bagels....YUM!

[Chatbrat]

Bagels in Fl--just like pizza--its a joke

[Barefoot]

If you like Aldi's bread you might like to try Dave's Killer Bread in Publix. I went to the Woman's Seminar in Orlando and their company was there sampling their bread, it is unbelievably delicious. I went back for three slices and then they shut me off! The story behind this bread is quite something: Dave's Killer Bread | Organic, Non-GMO Project Verified Whole Grain Bread (http://www.daveskillerbread.com/#breakfast-slide)
I'm wondering about Dave's raisin and cinnamon bagels - have you tried them?

[Madelaine Amee]

I'm wondering about Dave's raisin and cinnamon bagels - have you tried them?

No, I love real Jewish bagels, but I don't eat bagels because they are loaded with carbs - but yummy. The husband eats bagels, but he prefers NY Water Bagels - is that the right name?

[Madelaine Amee]

I see it's down by me too. Is it in the freezer or out on the shelf? Looks good.

It's on the shelf in the bread aisle. Good stuff - load it up with butter and strawberry jam or whatever you like ....

[Madelaine Amee]

As for food prices .... if I want it I'm going to have it! I am only going this way once, my kids are financially secure, and now it is our time.

[Investment Painting Contractors]

As for food prices .... if I want it I'm going to have it! I am only going this way once, my kids are financially secure, and now it is our time.

Amen

[pooh]

Bagels in Fl--just like pizza--its a joke

Actually, they’re not from FL....they are from Oregon...and I enjoy them as do many others....your experience may vary...:icon_wink:

[pooh]

As for food prices .... if I want it I'm going to have it! I am only going this way once, my kids are financially secure, and now it is our time.


Yes!!

[bigrig353]

I shop Aldis and Wal-mart. Only go to Publix or Winn Dixie if they have a good meat sale. Otherwise I get meat at Sams Club. I can't imagine what a cart full of groceries must cost at Publix or WD. We went to WD to get a bag of some type of snack ( chips, etc). They were more than double the cost from Aldis.....didn’t buy them. Some people prefer the real grocery store atmosphere of Publix and WD. It's great that we have options.
I do not believe you can compare Publix prices to Aldis. Publix has name brands and store brands . Aldis has Store brands pretty much only. Apples to Apples.

It is not always about the price. Time Distance to store , convenience to store all play a part in decision to shop and spend where you do.
Just my personal opinion. Carry on

[bigrig353]

Congrats to you

[Villager Joyce]

I think we all look at pricing differently. My husband looks at the per pound price. I look at the per serving price.

[Bjeanj]

Groceries are the same for us no matter what. Course I’m the one still shopping online that nobody believes I buy 80% of my groceries.

I get free shipping, any sales on that day, and even coupons are applied. Groceries on my doorstep in a matter of hours or 2 day ship. Either way I know exactly what I’m paying and the app tells me if I can buy it cheaper somewhere else.

I don’t have to fight the crowds stand in lines and basically have more time in my life to enjoy. When we are out and about, We shop Trader Joe’s, and Costco. Off campus grocery’s are cheaper.

I am interested in trying out the online grocery shopping; is that from Amazon, or ? Can you advise? Thanks.

[Schaumburger]

No, I love real Jewish bagels, but I don't eat bagels because they are loaded with carbs - but yummy. The husband eats bagels, but he prefers NY Water Bagels - is that the right name?

Madelaine, I think you are referring to The Original Brooklyn Water Bagel Co. on 27/441. The most marvelous bagels. . .this is one of my "go to" places when I visit TV. Wish they would open locations in Chicagoland. Another reason for me to move to The Villages some day. :mmmm:

[Schaumburger]

As for food prices .... if I want it I'm going to have it! I am only going this way once, my kids are financially secure, and now it is our time.

:BigApplause: :agree:

[asianthree]

I am interested in trying out the online grocery shopping; is that from Amazon, or ? Can you advise? Thanks.

Yes I do use Amazon for the bulk of my things plus free shipping. I don’t even have to make a list since I have Alexa she keeps my list for me transfers it from my phone. I can even scan a barcode. Heavy items are no big deal except for the fedex guy.

I know what’s on sale if I can buy it cheaper elsewhere, coupons are applied. I don’t buy meat at the grocery since we split a cow.

Most of my fresh produce comes from my container gardens. When I’m up north every grocery store offers home delivery or front door pick up. I truthfully have not been in a grocery store more than five times in the last six months.

I find I actually spend less money on groceries since there’s no impulse buying walking down the aisle‘s and getting caught up in that long line to pay at the cash register. I’ve been using Amazon for close to a year and extremely happy. Up north whole foods delivery to our home so if I need anything from there it’s at my door within two hours.

We are prime members, almost every thing I buy comes from a box with a smile on it.

[Carl in Tampa]

I seldom do any grocery shopping. In Tampa my kids do it for me, and in The Villages Barbara does it.

Seeing your posts confirms to me what Barbara often says; it costs about the same to go out to eat as it does to buy the ingredients in the store and prepare it yourself.

Knowing little about pricing, I do have an insight to offer about produce quality, which was mentioned elsewhere in this thread.

Tomatoes - In the 1950s, some of the finest quality tomatoes in the United States were produced on farms near Ruskin, Florida, in the same county with Tampa. Ruskin was a well known destination for migrant farm workers, and continues to be at this time, but to a lesser extent. The number of fields dedicated to tomatoes, and the packing houses for processing them has fallen off as more and more urban development has impinged on the area. There are still areas of Ruskin tomatoes growing as far as the eye can see. Fewer tomatoes results in higher prices. Tomato Supplier | Ruskin FL | Tomatoes of Ruskin | Home (https://www.tomatoesofruskin.com/)

Oranges - Over the decades there have been a series of "Impact Freezes" that resulted in the destruction of vast areas of Orange Groves in Florida. This, and Disney's acquisition and destruction of groves to build Walt Disney World, resulted in virtually no current attempts to grow oranges north of State Road 60, which runs across the state at about the level of Tampa. Fewer groves results in fewer oranges, which brings higher prices.

Strawberries - The area around Plant City (named for early Florida developer Henry B. Plant,) east of Tampa is devoted to growing large and tasty strawberries. There is a major celebration every year, called the Strawberry Festival which is similar to a State Fair in a southern state. Many people prefer it over the Florida State Fair. I have seen Plant City Strawberries in grocery stores in The Villages. At the end of the harvest season, some fields open to tourists who can pick the remaining strawberries at a greatly reduced price.

Entertainment at the 2016 Strawberry Festival included the Drifters, Platters and Cornell Gunter’s Coasters; Willie Nelson and Family; Bellamy Brothers, Brenda Lee, The Blues Brothers, The Oak Ridge Boys, Cab Calloway Orchestra, Larry Gatlin and the Gatlin Brothers, and Patti LaBelle.

Now, the insight about quality. Decades ago I was told by a teacher (in who knows what class) that it was a common practice that the finest produce was never sold locally. It was packaged for shipment to major markets where it would bring a higher price than in the more agrarian venues where it was grown. I don't claim this is accurate, but I was in the mood to write a long post, so here it is.

P.S. - The next Strawberry Festival is March 1 - 11, 2018. It is worth a visit. Headline Entertainment – Florida Strawberry Festival (http://www.flstrawberryfestival.com/headline-entertainment/)

[Fraugoofy]

How do your taxes here compare to "back home"?

...

[Barefoot]

LOVE this bread....and their raisin bread and bagels....YUM! I'm definitely trying Dave's bread and bagels when we arrive in TV.

[Barefoot]

It is not always about the price. Time/ Distance to store , convenience to store all play a part in decision to shop and spend where you do.
I agree 100%. We shop for fresh produce several times a week, and we value convenience.
For some women, it's fun to get the best price. Not me.
I want to spend my golden years golfing, not shopping for bargains.

[NotGolfer]

We lived in the upper midwest all of our lives til we moved here 8 yrs. ago. I don't find we spend more here than we did up north. Though meat and milk seem to be more costly. We eat simply and don't purchase junk food...so find that probably contributes as well. We don't bake at our house neither. I do like the bogo's but I don't make a practice of shopping that way. I buy what we eat so basically could do without a list except for the add-ons (paper goods, sundry items etc.)