Thanksgiving shoppers in Puerto Rico may pay a bit more for turkey this year. Erwin Álvarez Rodríguez, interim secretary of the Department of Consumer Affairs (DACO), estimated the regular price should fluctuate between $1.50 and $2.50 per pound, noting a small increase in the price per pound. He said prices can vary depending on supply and demand, competition among establishments, brand, quality and where the product comes from.
Earlier this week, the president of the Chamber of Marketing, Industry and Food Distribution (MIDA), Félix Aponte, had warned that supermarket prices will keep rising because of higher energy, manufacturing and distribution costs facing the sector. On availability, Álvarez Rodríguez said DACO has not received information about any situation that would compromise the holiday turkey inventory, and stated "Puerto Rico is safe that it will have its turkey."
Looking ahead to Black Friday, he said DACO will deploy more than 50 inspectors across the island to monitor stores. He said the early-bird sales have changed since hurricanes Irma and María and the COVID-19 pandemic, crediting agency monitoring and collaboration agreements with the commercial sector, including one recently signed with the Retail Trade Association.
He said the priority is that consumers find advertised items and prices, though the agency will act against noncompliant establishments. TVs, toys and household items are expected to be in highest demand.