MELBOURNE, August 11, 2005 (heraldsun.news.com.au): Vinnies Budget Groceries opened in Heidelberg West yesterday, with 10,000 grocery lines selling for up to 25 per cent cheaper than regular supermarket prices. The store, run by the St Vincent de Paul Society, is open to pensioners, health card holders and people on government benefits. The low prices were possible because the store does not take profits and all staff are volunteers, project officer Max Fletcher said.
“I just have to cover the rent,” he said.
More than 200 filed in during the first 90 minutes yesterday.
“Everyone said how much they loved it,” Mr Fletcher said. “People were shocked by the variety we have, such as fresh fruit, meat and bread.”
The aim was to keep staples, such as bread and milk, as cheap as possible, he said.
Five more stores will open, including Moe, Ballarat and Wangaratta.
Banyule mayor Cr Greg Ryan officially opened the Heidelberg West store yesterday.
It is at Shop 65, The Mall, and open Wednesday to Friday, 9am-3pm.
