THE Jersey Consumer Council is planning to bolster its price comparison service to help Islanders shop around – as food costs “continue to grow at an eye-watering rate”.
JCC chairman Carl Walker spoke as the Council marked its 30th anniversary with a consumer fair at the Town Hall, offering free advice and money-saving tips.
Mr Walker stressed that the cost of living crisis was “not going away”.
“Rising energy bills and rising food prices affect every single household in Jersey,” Mr Walker said.
“More than ever, consumers need a strong, independent voice to ensure fairness, transparency and choice.
“That is why this Council was created in 1995, and it is why we are standing here in 2025.”
Outlining some of the JCC’s intentions, Mr Walker said its price comparison service would be increased “to keep Islanders informed about the importance of shopping around”.
Noting that food prices “continue to grow at an eye-watering rate”, Mr Walker said the bolstered comparison service would not only help consumers save money, but also “encourage more competition”.
The spiralling cost of living has seen demand for local food banks surge in recent years.
During 2021, the Salvation Army gave out 1,040 food parcels, rising to 1,470 and then 2,850 in 2022 and 2023 respectively – with last year’s figure standing at 3,802.
And St Vincent de Paul food bank was providing support to over 500 households by the end of last year, compared to just under 200 at the beginning of 2022.
In July, Mr Walker warned that food was still “worryingly expensive” for Islanders and that, while inflation had dropped significantly from its double-digit highs, many consumers were still struggling with the cost of everyday essentials.
