Mars Bars manufacturer faces criticism for implementing ‘shrinkflation,’ reducing the size of certain bars by nearly a quarter while keeping the prices unchanged.
Reports from shop owners indicate that since March, the chocolate bars’ weight has been decreased from 51g to 40g, with no adjustment in wholesale or retail prices.
Data from a major wholesaler supports these claims, showing that the 51g bar, now labeled as ‘discontinued,’ was sold for 75p, providing a 24.24% profit margin to retailers. The new 40g version maintains the same price and profit margin for sellers.
Jim Moorhead, owner of Top Cards in Renfrewshire, expressed disappointment, stating that Mars Bars’ weight reduction by 21.5% would force small businesses to increase prices significantly to maintain profits.
A spokesperson for Mars Wrigley UK and Ireland defended the changes, emphasizing a focus on offering high-quality snacks to consumers. The company mentioned adjustments to bar sizes and pack formats to cater to evolving consumer snacking habits and affordability needs.
Last year, consumer champion Which? highlighted a trend of shrinkflation affecting various products, including toothpaste and heartburn medicine. The organization called for manufacturers to be more transparent about such modifications.
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