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Loblaws is bringing back some 50 per cent off discounts

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Since facing criticism from consumers after slashing their 50 per cent off discount stickers and replacing them with 30 per cent off stickers, Canadian supermarket company Loblaw is reinstating the half-off promotion.

In an email to CHCH, the company confirmed the reversal of the stickers and said they have listened to the feedback from customers.

Some customers of the Loblaw owned supermarket store No Frills say they are relieved the company has decided to bring back the half-off promotion.

Read More: Canadian grocers promising discounts, price freezes on food

The 50% off stickers had already removed from stores across Canada, except in the Atlantic, as of January 14. They are returning to some stores in the next few weeks while in others it may take longer.

Experts say this U-turn is a break away from the grocery giants reputation of sticking with its strategy.

Dr. Sylvan Charlebois, from Dalhousie University says “the outcry was fueled by pure desperation really. I think a lot of people are struggling out there and they say these rebates as being quite helpful.”

Read More: Unifor to begin negotiations for workers at Loblaw-owned stores in Ontario

According to the Agri-Food Analytics lab, one-fifth of Canadians search for the deals when shopping.

Loblaw said it was reducing its discounts to align with competitors, a strategy that resulted in turning some shoppers away.

The reversal by Loblaws could put more pressure on other grocery giants like Metro and Sobeys to reduce their prices, and increase Loblaw’s sales.