Shopping for Food

There is a variety of food outlets available from community to community.

In South Africa we have Wholesalers, Hypermarkets, Supermarkets, Department Stores and Speciality Stores.

Wholesalers:

Forms a link between the producer and small businesses. They sell in bulk at relatively cheap prices.They also package products in smaller quantities to resell to the consumer at a profit.

Hypermarkets:

They are the largest of all stores, and they offer a wide variety of products including food, clothing, furniture, electrical appliances, and gardening equipment. They also have ample parking and also close to all public transport routes.

Supermarkets:

They normally stock a variety of food products, and have their own bakery, butchery and wine selection.

Advantages and Disadvantages of shopping at a Hypermarket/Supermarket:

ADVANTAGES:

A wide variety of products are available so they offer the convenience of one stop shopping.
Self service gives the consume the opportunity to compare goods and prices.
Malls sometimes offer enterainment, places to eat and other speciality stores.
Prices are normally lower that in smaller outlets.Car parking is usually available.
Quality is often assured whereas in more traditional shops quality varies.

DISADVANTAGES:A shopping trip can be tiring especially for the elderly, disabled people and mothers with small children.
Shoppers are wasily tempted to go beyond the shopping list and over spend. I know I'm definately guilty of that.
Queuing at tills can waste a lot of time.
Small outlets may not be able to compete and can lose business as a result of the competition.

Department Stores:

Have several department with large variety of products, eg food, clothing, shoes, cosmetics, linen.

Speciality Stores:

Specialise in one type of product. eg Butcher, Bakery, or a Sweet Shop. They normally have a good quality of products and excellent service.

Food Outlets in the Local Community:

General Dealers:

Found in smaller towns and rural places

The store is usually managed and owned by the owner.
Sells a variety of products e.g. milk, bread, sweets, groceries, medicine and household products.

Convenience Stores or Cafes:

Smaller stores and open 7 days a week.
Some are even open 24/7 or longer hour than supermarkets.
Stock a variety of goods such as milk, bread, fast food, and limited groceries.

Flea Markets/Street Vendors:

Sell goods on pavement with a high flow of pedestrians.

Fruit, vegetables, spices and fast food is normally sold.
Cash only basis.
Goods are cheaper because they have nor overheads like renting a building.
You just have to check the quality before you purchase.