Tips to avoid supermarket price gouging

After a recent ACCC report found price gouging was rampant across multiple industries in Australia, Aussies are acutely aware of where price hikes are happening.

With families currently spending an average of $188 per week at the supermarket, the financial burden is real.

But Drakes Supermarket director JP Drake told Today there are key tells to know when you are paying too much and things you can do about it.

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"It's extremely difficult for independent operators to be able to compete on a level playing field against the giant supermarkets," he said.

"To be honest, it's like a boxing match with one hand tied behind your back."

The ACCC report found shoppers were spending an average of 20 per cent more than they used to and incidents of the price differing between the shelf and the checkout have increased.

JP said the classic method of looking in the weekly catalogue is a great way to find the items on special and clearance.

"Not to mention when you walk around the supermarkets, there's weekly specials, fortnightly specials, monthly specials and price drops," he said.

"And the other thing you need to look out for is seasonal produce has been coming down in price, so definitely look at seasonal products like grapes are fantastic at the moment."

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But one other key tool JP said was to pay attention to the shelf ticket.

They have unit-of-measure pricing on them and will help you get the best value for money.

"And lastly vote with your feet, if you're not happy with where you're shopping, find somewhere that is going to look after you," he said.

"Support the independent fruit and veg shop, the deli, the corner stores and, obviously, your independent supermarkets."

See what else JP had to say in the video above