Advocate for a Temporary Boycott of Fresh Produce and Meats in January

The Issue

I, like many others, am feeling the strain of our current economic climate. Inflation rates are soaring to unprecedented levels, making it increasingly difficult for ordinary people to put food on their tables. Meanwhile, grocery stores are reporting record profits - a stark contrast that highlights the inequality in our society.

In light of this situation, I propose a temporary boycott of fresh produce and meats from grocery stores during the first few weeks of January. This action is not intended to harm these businesses but rather to send a clear message about the need for fair pricing policies that take into account the financial struggles many households are facing.

According to data from Dalhousie University's Canada's Food Price Report 2023; The forecasted total food price for 2022 was estimated at a 5-7% increased, the actuals released  to be 10.3% nearly double the expected increase in pricing. The major increase categories being; Bakery (14% increase in price), Fruits (11.4%) and vegetables (12.7%).

And according to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, food prices rose by 3.9% in 2021 - almost double the rate seen in previous years (U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics). This increase has been particularly hard on low-income families who spend a larger proportion of their income on food.

Global News business states Grocery Sector set to exceed a record profit in 2023, likely exceeding 6 Billion Dollars.

By participating in this boycott, we can draw attention to this issue and encourage grocery stores to reassess their pricing strategies. We understand that they too have costs and need profits; however, there must be balance between business interests and consumer welfare.

Let's stand together against high inflation rates affecting our ability to afford basic necessities like food. Sign this petition today!

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The Issue

I, like many others, am feeling the strain of our current economic climate. Inflation rates are soaring to unprecedented levels, making it increasingly difficult for ordinary people to put food on their tables. Meanwhile, grocery stores are reporting record profits - a stark contrast that highlights the inequality in our society.

In light of this situation, I propose a temporary boycott of fresh produce and meats from grocery stores during the first few weeks of January. This action is not intended to harm these businesses but rather to send a clear message about the need for fair pricing policies that take into account the financial struggles many households are facing.

According to data from Dalhousie University's Canada's Food Price Report 2023; The forecasted total food price for 2022 was estimated at a 5-7% increased, the actuals released  to be 10.3% nearly double the expected increase in pricing. The major increase categories being; Bakery (14% increase in price), Fruits (11.4%) and vegetables (12.7%).

And according to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, food prices rose by 3.9% in 2021 - almost double the rate seen in previous years (U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics). This increase has been particularly hard on low-income families who spend a larger proportion of their income on food.

Global News business states Grocery Sector set to exceed a record profit in 2023, likely exceeding 6 Billion Dollars.

By participating in this boycott, we can draw attention to this issue and encourage grocery stores to reassess their pricing strategies. We understand that they too have costs and need profits; however, there must be balance between business interests and consumer welfare.

Let's stand together against high inflation rates affecting our ability to afford basic necessities like food. Sign this petition today!

The Decision Makers

Chris Forbes
Chris Forbes
Deputy Minister of Finance

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Petition created on December 12, 2023