With New Year's Eve just around the corner, many families across Mexico are gearing up to celebrate, and one of the key components of the festivities are grapes. This tradition involves eating 12 grapes at midnight, each representing good wishes for each month of the upcoming year. But as families stock up for this ritual, they're finding themselves facing rising prices.
Traditionally, the twelve grapes eaten at midnight symbolize the hopes and goals for the year to come. This beloved custom is expected to see many families seeking to acquire them at the best prices possible as the clock tick-tocks toward midnight on December 31. With the price fluctuations common during this season, it’s wise to compare offers at local supermarkets.
Prices for grapes have been reported to vary significantly between retailers, particularly at major chains like Walmart, Chedraui, and Soriana, which are popular shopping destinations for last-minute holiday essentials.
At Walmart, grape prices are quite competitive. On December 30, green grapes were available for prices between 79 and 99 pesos per kilo, whereas red grapes were being sold between 69 and 89 pesos per kilo. This makes Walmart’s offerings appealing for families trying to keep their budget intact during the holiday season.
If Chedraui is more convenient for your shopping needs, you’ll find similar competitive prices there as well. The green and red grapes are selling for 89 pesos per kilo. They have even introduced special offers on seedless black grapes, dropping their price from 153.50 pesos to just 89 pesos per kilo. These promotions invite families to celebrate without breaking the bank.
Soriana, another major chain, is known for even lower prices during this festive period, especially for seedless grapes. Their pricing includes seedless green grapes discounted from 110 pesos down to 69 pesos per kilo, and red seedless grapes at just 69.90 pesos. Through these deals, Soriana aims to cater to budget-conscious customers hoping to stick to traditional practices.
The increase in grape prices this year can be attributed to several factors, including inflation, unfavorable weather conditions affecting crop yields, and the seasonal spike in demand. According to the National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI), the average cost of grapes across the country is approximately 105.1 pesos per kilo—a notable rise of 9.7% from the previous year.
Notably, the Central de Abasto, Mexico City's largest wholesale market, has recorded substantial upticks, particularly for green grapes rising from 85 to 90 pesos and red grapes from 40 to 43 pesos per kilo.
For many Mexicans, these prices present more than just financial figures; they represent tradition. Many are determined to keep the ritual alive, employing various strategies, such as purchasing grapes early to avoid shortages or even selecting alternative foods to symbolize good fortune if grapes become too costly.
To stay within budget during this New Year’s countdown, shoppers are advised to keep close tabs on promotional events at these grocery chains. This year, shoppers can benefit from additional discounts and promotions available through loyalty programs, particularly at Soriana where double points can be earned on certain purchases made with participating card transactions.
The grocery price reports are being closely monitored by the Federal Consumer Attorney’s Office (Profeco), ensuring customers have access to the most up-to-date pricing. Profeco recently highlighted contrasting prices of grapes across various outlets, pointing out significant markup regions where prices soar past 100 pesos per kilo.
Given the increased prices and the high demand for grapes leading up to New Year's Eve, it is imperative for consumers to plan their purchases strategically and be aware of where the best deals can be found. A proactive approach to shopping can safeguard against any last-minute price spikes as the holiday approaches.
The tradition of eating grapes at New Year’s is more than just food; it embodies hope and collective good wishes for happiness and prosperity. Despite the changeable prices, the essence of this tradition—the fervent desires for joy, success, and opportunity for the upcoming year—remains unchanged.