Grocery prices continue to soar in North Alabama during coronavirus

Grocery store prices continue to soar in North Alabama during coronavirus pandemic

Again.

New information -- like we've mentioned -- you've probably noticed higher prices at the grocery store.

They come during an increase in demand - supply chain distruptions - and factory shutdowns due to the pandemic.

Waay 31's ashley carter is live in decatur where customers say they don't have any choice but to pay more.

I'm here at hometown market where i've seen dozens of people coming in and out of this store today.

Some told me they've noticed the price jump...while others say they haven't...but they all told me no matter how high prices get they'll have no choice but to dish out the extra cash.

Doris coleman, shopper: "i'm looking for my grandkids, some snacks."

Doris coleman told me she shops for groceries two to three times a week for her family.

She noticed the higher prices.

Doris coleman, shopper: "all meats are extremely high.

Beef any ground beef, roast anything like that is unusually high."

The store manager for hometown market told me manufacturers are raising prices and are forcing stores to charge more too.

Most food companies negotiate with grocery stores and demand a certain price be charged.

So, they're stuck passing on the cost to meet demand.

Manufacturers also stopped offering deals like buy one get one free.

Doris coleman, shopper: "well i have to have them so i'll have to pay the price.

I don't have a choice."

Ira stevenson, shopper: "i'm hoping everything will be okay where everybody can survive and eat."

Last month, president donald trump signed an executive order to keep meat and poultry plants open during the coronavirus crisis.

It's supposed to make sure there's enough fresh food for americans but also forces companies to spend more money to meet demand.

The consumer price index found prices are up in almost all food groups.

And aren't expected to go down anytime soon.

There is some good news when it comes to money.

Lower prices for gas and energy are keeping most people's out of pocket costs the same.

Live in decatur ashley c waay 31