Market rate for fresh market hours in Boston is 25%, down from 30% earlier
Market rates for fresh markets are expected to fall in 2018, but according to data from BMO, the market rate is still 25%.BMO National Research, a market research firm, estimates that a fresh market hour rate for an average grocery store in Boston could be around $6.95.
The price of a fresh sandwich at the typical grocery store is $1.65.
BMO rates fresh markets at 30% for lunch, 30% during Thanksgiving, 25% during Black Friday, and 25% for other special occasions.
According to a survey from the U.S. Census Bureau, about 4.6 million households are eligible for SNAP benefits, which can be used to buy groceries, rent a car, and other items.
Some states, including New York, are considering a change in their SNAP rules that would allow SNAP benefits to be used at supermarkets and other businesses, including supermarkets.BMO says that its data shows that grocery market rates are down compared to a year ago.BMA President Richard Trumka said in a statement that he is “very concerned” about the changes.
“The number of people in our communities that need help to survive and thrive is staggering,” Trumkas statement said.
“It’s unacceptable that grocery prices continue to soar, especially in Massachusetts.
I urge the Legislature to immediately enact commonsense SNAP relief measures that include increasing food stamps, eliminating barriers to access and expanding the number of households eligible for food stamps.”