Consumer group finds frequent pricing mistakes on receipts at Dutch supermarkets

A recent investigation by the Dutch consumer group Consumentenbond revealed significant pricing discrepancies at several regional supermarket chains. The survey, conducted in February and March 2025, focused on six supermarket chains: Dekamarkt, Dirk, Hoogvliet, Nettorama, Poiesz, and Vomar. The results showed that an average of 13 percent of the items surveyed had incorrect pricing, with most errors involving prices higher at the register than advertised in the store.

The research targeted promotional items, including discounted goods placed at the front of stores or in special displays, which are often prone to pricing errors. Previous investigations by the Consumentenbond in large supermarket chains, such as Albert Heijn, Jumbo, and Plus, had revealed similar problems with promotional items, though these chains have taken steps in recent years to reduce such errors. Meanwhile, Aldi and Lidl were found to have minimal mistakes in earlier studies.

Among the regional chains surveyed, Hoogvliet was found to have the highest error rate, with 22 percent of items mispriced on receipts. Poiesz had the fewest errors, with only 9 percent of items mispriced. The pricing mistakes were not limited to overcharging; some customers were fortunate enough to benefit from lower-than-expected prices, though this was less common.

Following the release of the findings, Hoogvliet promised to address the issue by improving its processes to reduce errors. Sandra Molenaar, the director of Consumentenbond, urged other supermarkets to follow suit: "We hope that other supermarkets will take this example seriously. Our message is clear: ensure that receipts are error-free."