Pocono News Section

Grocery Auctions Thrive in Bad Economy

Grocery Auctions Thrive in Bad Economy - Saturday, April 11, 2009 at 9:11PM EST

DALLAS, LUZERNE COUNTY - Hundreds of people came out Saturday afternoon for a unique type of auction. People were not buying antiques, they were buying groceries. Because of the bad economy, organizers say grocery auctions are gaining popularity and becoming a booming business.
"People have told me, they save anywhere between 60 and 80 dollars on their grocery bills on a weekly basis," Kirk Williams said. Williams runs Col. Kirk's Auction Gallery. He sponsored a grocery auction in Dallas Saturday afternoon.

From shortbreads to steaks, pork chops to popcorn shrimp, all types of foods and even dry goods are up for sale.

"It's reasonable prices. It's very good. You definately get your money's worth," Joann Eddy of Tunkhannock said.

Saturday was Eddy's second time at a grocery auction. The last time, her family loved what she bought.

"My kids seemed to like them. I enjoyed them, so I'm here again, so I'm looking to do some shopping myself," Eddy said.

Many of the people looking to bid say they're looking to stretch their food budgets in any way possible.

"The economy's pretty shot. There's not too much we can do about it. The only thing people can do is try to save a buck wherever they can," Susan Myers of Hughesville said.

A majority of the food that's sold at the auctions is "nearly out of date" and can't be sold in supermarkets. That means savings that can add up.

"I've actually had people come up to me and give me a hug after the auction. They say thank you, because of the savings that we have," Williams said.

The new grocery auctions are:

Friday, May 8th at 3:00 PM
Kirk's Auction Gallery, Millville

Saturday, May 9th at 3:00 PM
Nescopeck Township Social Hall

Sunday, May 17th at 3:00 PM
New Bloomsburg Fire Hall