Healthy staples will cost 30% less at NYC-run grocery stores, Mayor Mamdani says
Certain core groceries will cost 30% less at New York City-run stores, Mayor Zohran Mamdani said Monday.
Mamdani had previously previewed the plan for cheaper staple items when he initially announced his plan for the stores.
"A trip to the grocery store shouldn't spell dread for New Yorkers. That's why we are guaranteeing a 30% discount on the most common and most critical groceries for families across the five boroughs -- including eggs, milk, chicken and fresh fruits and vegetables. In a city that's defined by unpredictability, you deserve stability -- no matter what aisle you're in," Mamdani said.
Here's how much New Yorkers could save
The basket of cheaper goods will include all fresh meat, seafood, and produce, the mayor said. There will also be a discount for 20 additional pantry items, along with some dairy and other refrigerated goods.
The mayor estimates the savings will cut the average New Yorkers' grocery bill by 15% for a cumulative savings of about $1,000 a year.
"Once a month, our five city-run grocery stores will set prices for this core set of goods at 30% below typical retail prices. No exceptions, no gimmicks. The savings will last for the entire month," Mamdani said.
The mayor has promised to open five city-run supermarkets -- one in each borough by the end of his term in 2029.
The first city-run store will open by the end of 2027 in the Hunts Point section of the Bronx. There will be one in each borough, including the previously announced location at La Marqueta in East Harlem, by the end of the mayor's term.
"Groceries are one of the clearest places New Yorkers feel the cost of living every week," Deputy Mayor for Economic Justice Julie Su said. "This administration is building a grocery store model that puts affordability first, with a 30% discount on essential foods and quality jobs for the people who run these stores. That's what it means to make this city work for working people."
Bodega advocates push back against Mamdani's plan
Fernando Mateo, co-founder of United Bodegas of America, said the mayor's plan will hurt the mom-and-pop establishments he represents.
"We know what we're doing. You don't. You're 33 years old. You've never owned a business. You've [never] run a city. You've never run a business," Mateo said, adding when asked if it will hurt bodegas, "It will hurt everybody, not just bodegas. It will hurt communities."
The mayor insists the bodegas won't be hurt because his stores wont have deli counter or sell hot food. Nor will they sell cigarettes or lottery tickets.
"And we know that a lot of what drives revenue for these bodegas, grocery stores. Those are things that make it possible for them to continue to operate. Those are not things we have any interest in competing for," Mamdani said.
The city is also seeking a qualified grocer to operate the stores, someone who can develop a cost-effective food supply chain and a New York City groceries private label.
