Basildon Community Supermarket sells food for ‘a minimum’ of 30 per cent cheaper than a standard supermarket.

The scheme was the first of its kind in the county when it was set up in 2022, supported by funding from Essex County Council. It is a non-profit project that offers essential food and household items at a discounted price.

Staffed by volunteers, the community supermarket allows members to manage their weekly budget and enjoy special offers. Unlike a foodbank, anyone who lives in the borough of Basildon is eligible to join for £3.50.

HopeThree16 and Basildon Community Supermarket fund bidder Janine Colton told the Echo: “The idea of the community supermarket was to grab those people who are on the fringes of falling into foodbank dependence as a safety net or a leg up.

“It’s not a shameful place to be. I would argue if people started using community supermarkets, they could compete with affordable supermarkets. That’s what I’d like to see.”

See how a basket of shopping from Basildon Community Supermarket measures up against one at Tesco:Echo:

Basildon Community Supermarket:

  • Tilda Coconut Basmati Rice: 60p 
  • Italiamo Farafalle Tricolore Pasta: 50p 
  • Custard: 40p 
  • Rice pudding: 20p 
  • Tesco Fat Free Lemon and Black Pepper Dressing: 50p 
  • Nestle Carnation Caramel: £1.20 
  • Askey’s Maple Syrup Flavour Dessert Sauce: £1

Echo:

Tesco:

  • Tilda Coconut Basmati Rice: £1.25 
  • Farafalle Tricolore Pasta: 75p 
  • Ready to Serve Custard: £1 
  • Rice pudding: 90p 
  • Fat Free Lemon and Black Pepper Dressing: £1 
  • Nestle Carnation Caramel: £1.90 
  • Askey’s Maple Syrup Flavour Dessert Sauce: £1.50