Splitting Foodstuffs Could Save Shoppers | Auckland News

New Zealand’s National Party wants to split up Foodstuffs, the giant grocery group controlling 82% of the market, arguing it’ll boost competition and slash prices. But individual stores under Foodstuffs are pushing back, warning the breakup would weaken collective buying power and actually raise costs — especially for small business owners who work tirelessly to serve their communities. Meanwhile, new analysis suggests households could save $3.85 to $25.38 weekly by 2035 if the split goes through, depending on shopping habits — a key talking point as voters grapple with soaring living costs. Labour’s response? A plan to ban price gouging for essentials, turning gr...