A shopper was surprised by the significant price variations between two Tesco stores located just one mile apart. In the quest for savings amidst rising living costs, many seek out the best supermarket deals for their weekly groceries. This prompted a comparison of food prices at two nearby Tesco outlets by a user named ‘thismumcooks’ on TikTok, revealing notable differences that complicated the notion of “shopping locally.”

The photos shared by the user displayed contrasting prices at the two Tesco stores. For instance, a 340g pack of Prince’s Corned Beef cost £4.35 at Tesco Express and £3.80 at the larger Tesco nearby. Similarly, a 280g pack of Tesco branded cod fillets was priced at £7 in the convenience store and £6.10 in the bigger supermarket.

While Tesco Express seemed cheaper for some items like L’or instant coffee at £8 compared to £8.65 in the larger Tesco, the latter offered larger package sizes that altered the price per 100g. Notably, Fox’s Chocolatey half-coated cookies were priced at £2.75 in Tesco Express and £2.40 in the bigger Tesco.

Moreover, the comparison extended to items like Heinz beef ravioli, where Tesco Express sold a can for £2.30, while the larger Tesco priced it at £2 with a special offer of three cans for £4.50. Additionally, a 500g package of Brown & Polson Cornflour cost £3.45 in Tesco Express but only £3 in the larger store.

The user highlighted how smaller convenience stores often have higher prices due to increased operational costs, leading to challenges for those relying on local shops. The discrepancy in prices sparked discussions among viewers, questioning the fairness of pricing strategies between different Tesco outlets.

In response to inquiries, a Tesco spokesperson explained that while Express stores have higher running costs, they strive to offer competitive prices compared to other convenience stores. The spokesperson also noted that Tesco provides certain products, like own-brand bread and milk, at consistent prices across all store formats.