'Shrinkflation' now widespread in goods and services

A new phenomenon is taking hold across the world - "shrinkflation". This is when companies reduce the size of their products or range of services while maintaining prices. It is in reaction to the rising prices of raw materials needed in the production process. Another tactic being used is to place smaller numbers of items in larger boxes, providing an illusion to shoppers that they are getting more for their money. Shrinking the size of products is in effect a cost-cutting strategy. Manufacturers are relying on psychology here. They know that consumers are more sensitive to price than quantity or quality. Most shoppers will still make a regular purchase, even if it has shrunk, as long as the price has not risen.

The chocolate bar maker Cadbury has resorted to shrinking the size of one of its flagship products by 10 per cent to maintain its bottom line. A company spokesperson said: "We look to absorb costs…in this difficult environment [so] we've had to make the decision to slightly reduce the weight of [chocolate] bars for the first time since 2012, so that we can keep them competitive." The service industry is also being inventive to try to refrain from raising prices. The hotel chains Hilton and Marriott have made daily housekeeping services "opt in". This means that guests must now request the cleaning of their room. Many other free services we have taken for granted are on the wane and being shrunk.

1. What did you think when you read the headline?
2. What images are in your mind when you hear the word 'shrink'?
3. What do you know about shrinkflation?
4. Has shrinkflation affected you?
5. Would you prefer the same and pay more, or less at the same price?
6. Why are we experiencing shrinkflation?
7. How much smaller can things like chocolate bars be?
8. What do you think of a small number of things in a big box?
9. How price sensitive are you?
10. Did you like reading this article? Why/not?
11. What do you think of when you hear the word 'inflation'?
12. What do you think about what you read?
13. What do you think about shrinkflation?
14. Do you think chocolate bars should be a standard size?
15. Do you feel duped by shrinking product sizes?
16. What do you think of opt-in services at hotels?
17. How could English schools shrink their products or services?
18. What hotel services do you take for granted?
19. What questions would you like to ask manufacturers?
20. What advice do you have for manufacturers?