Rising Costs Impact Shopping Habits in Maesteg Ahead of Senedd Election
Maesteg, a town within the newly formed Afan Ogwr Rhondda constituency, is experiencing a tangible shift in consumer behaviour as rising costs dominate discussions, even as the Senedd election approaches. This area, notably, has the highest proportion of pupils entitled to free school meals and the highest economic inactivity rate in Wales.
Shifting Consumer Trends
Hayley Morgan, owner of Go Bananas greengrocer’s, observes customers becoming “more savvy,” opting for loose produce rather than pre-packaged goods to manage spending. Similarly, butcher Andrew Garner notes an increase in sausage sales and a greater reliance on cash payments, indicating a closer monitoring of expenditure, particularly towards the end of the month.
However, the impact isn't uniform. Michael Newth of KMP Jewellers reports a trend of customers purchasing gold as an investment, suggesting that while some tighten their belts, others with greater means are still making significant purchases. The town also sees new businesses, such as Delicious, a pasta and salad takeaway, thriving despite the economic climate, albeit facing their own rising supply costs.
Scepticism Towards Political Solutions
Despite the pervasive concern over the cost of living, many residents express a lack of faith in political solutions. Retired catering business owner Barbara Farmer highlights a feeling that politicians view Maesteg as a “poorer area” and often fail to deliver on promises. Go Bananas owner Hayley Morgan questions the efficacy of the Welsh Parliament itself, perceiving it as an expensive tier of governance with unclear benefits. Julie Evans, a pensioner struggling with rising costs, echoes this sentiment, stating, “Change is promised by every party and delivered by none.”
This widespread scepticism indicates a disconnect between the electorate's immediate concerns and their belief in the political system's ability to effect positive change, even as the Senedd election looms.
