Weis Markets' recent announcement it was "freezing" prices on 2,400 items has brought it national attention with MSNBC and other media outlets highlighting the chain's move at a time when consumers are struggling with the effects of the recession.
David Hepfinger, who will be adding the CEO title to his duties as president of Weis Markets, said in press release, "While our weekly promotions offer our customers an excellent way to save money and reduce their costs, we wanted to go the extra mile by freezing and lowering the prices on thousands of our staple items, both brand name and store brand, over the long-term for 90 days."
The 155-store supermarket chain plans to run the promotion through April 1.
Weis rival Giant Food doesn't plan on freezing its prices. Company spokesperson Tracy Pawelski told The York Dispatch, "We're going to keep doing what we always do and that is maximize value for our customers every day."
Ms. Pawelski added, "The proof is at the shelf, where we compare our everyday prices with other grocers and show customers how much they can really save."
Discussion Questions: How successful or unsuccessful will Weis Markets' price freeze be in helping the chain to bring in new shoppers and keep them?