Customers asked to report price gouging
West Bloomfield, MI (March 16, 2020) – During these trying times as we all cope with COVID-19, MIRA’s 4,500 independent retailers are committed to remaining open and doing their best to restock their shelves. MIRA stores are on the frontlines of this national emergency and each store continues to work with suppliers to ensure the families they service have adequate food.
Many retail members are facing staffing shortages, large crowds, and a few customers with short tempers. This will not diminish the mission to the community. MIRA’s retail members are committed to delivering safe, healthy, and robust service during this national emergency. If anyone experiences retailers inflating prices, they are encouraging to report the grievances immediately.
Michigan residents are urged to report any violation of the Consumer Protection Act online or by calling 877-765-8388.
For gouging complaints, Illinois residents can call the state’s consumer fraud hotline at 1 (800) 243-0618.
In Ohio, residents should contact the Ohio Attorney General’s Office 800-282-0515.
Message from Auday Arabo, president and CEO of MIRA:
“We are living in unprecedented times and in times of crisis we see the best and worst of human character. We can assure the public that our independent grocers all throughout Michigan, Illinois and Ohio will remain open and have as much food and supply as we can get our hands on from our various suppliers until we are ordered to close. We hope the situation does not come to that.
We encourage the public to report any perceived price gouging in the marketplace, but keep in mind prices at supermarkets and liquor stores for general hygiene products will differ due to the supply chain. This is the same reason prices for Coke, Pepsi and other pop cost less in grocery stores versus convenience stores. The independent retailers are here to serve everyone during these trying times.”
Media Contact: Vanessa Denha Garmo 248. 830. 8605, vanessa@denhamedia.com
