Dis-Chem has denied allegations that it charged excessive prices during the national lockdown. The Competition Commission says the retailer increased prices on essential hygienic goods to the detriment of consumers.
An investigation was launched after the commission received complaints from the public. Most of the complaints related to the price of face masks.
For surgical face mask blue 50PC, the average price was inflated from R43.47 (excl VAT) per unit (50 masks) in February 2020 to R156.95 (excl VAT) per unit (50 masks) in March 2020, a price increase of 261 per cent.
The surgical face masks 5PC, the average price increased from R13.27 (excl VAT) per unit (5 masks) in February 2020 to R19.03 (excl VAT) per unit (5 masks) in March 2020, a price increase of 43 per cent.
Dis-Chem’s input costs with regards to the surgical face masks foliodress blue did not increase, but their gross profit margins inflated from 20 percent in February 2020 to 45 per cent in March 2020.
“People who sell these essential products ought to appreciate that these are literally life-saving items right now,” said Competition Commissioner Tembinkosi Bonakele.
“They shouldn’t be exploitative and take advantage of cash-strapped consumers during the worst time in our history. We will spare no effort in protecting the consumer.”
Dis-Chem says its pricing is within regulated guidelines. Coronavirus Hotline Number: 0800 029 999 from 8 am to 4 pm, Monday to Friday
Help protect your loved ones by sharing this official South African government COVID-19 service with your family, friends and community. Send HI to 0600 123 456 on WhatsApp.
The NICD has another Clinician Hotline to improve #COVID19 communication and support for healthcare providers. The Clinician Hotline is 0800 11 1131, operating 24 hrs. The Public Hotline is 0800 029 999 also operating 24hrs.
In other news – DJ Black Coffee talks about life after Divorce
Dj Black Coffee has been entertaining us with virtual concerts during lockdown while also raising over R100 000 for Coronavirus relief. The lockdown has also given him some time to think about his decisions in life, his divorce to Enhle Mbali in particular. Black Coffee was recently in a question and answer session with Scoop Makhathini on Instagram live. Read more
Source: eNCA
