If you’re a senior or retiree in South Australia, the rising cost of groceries just got a little easier to manage. Romeo’s Retail Group has announced that all its stores will now offer a 5% grocery discount to seniors with a Seniors Card. This discount, available seven days a week, is part of the South Australian government’s effort to ease the financial burden on retirees and older Australians who are struggling with everyday expenses.
A Welcome Relief for Seniors
The idea of providing a grocery discount to seniors is more than just a perk; it’s a lifeline. According to Alan Jones, Romeo’s Retail Group’s national merchandise and marketing manager, the 5% discount is designed to provide real support. “With the average household spending about $1,000 per month on groceries, this puts $50 back in seniors’ pockets to help with the cost of living,” said Jones to Yahoo Finance. While $50 may not seem like a huge amount to some, for seniors living on a fixed income, it can make a world of difference.
The initiative follows a successful trial run at Brighton Foodland, where the program was well-received. Now, Romeo’s is rolling out the offer across all of its 28 stores in South Australia. If you’re a Seniors Card holder, you can now shop at any of Romeo’s stores, knowing that a small but significant discount is coming your way.
More Than Just Groceries
What’s more, the Seniors Card offers much more than just grocery discounts. The South Australian government has worked hard to create a comprehensive discounts and deals directory, which includes savings on travel, home and garden items, education, and even recreational activities like the Adelaide Fringe. With over 430,000 Seniors Card members already benefitting from the scheme, it’s clear that these savings are making a real impact.
Sue Frazer, a Seniors Card member from North Brighton, is one of the many who appreciate the relief. “The Seniors Card discount really helps and makes shopping there more affordable,” said the 74-year-old. She also highlighted how the public transport discount, which allows seniors to use public transport free every day, helps them stay connected to their communities without the stress of rising travel costs.
How to Access the Discount
For those who aren’t already members, getting a Seniors Card is simple. Any permanent South Australian resident aged 60 and over who works fewer than 20 hours a week can apply. There are no income or pension limits, and the card is free of charge. Those who aren’t yet members are encouraged to sign up online or pick up an application form from any public library in the state.
Helping Seniors in Challenging Times
As the cost of living continues to rise, initiatives like these are more important than ever. With so many Australians living on fixed incomes, even small savings can make a difference. While the 5% grocery discount might seem like a small gesture, it’s a step toward making life just a little bit easier for seniors and retirees.
In the bigger picture, this initiative is a sign that more businesses could get on board to offer similar discounts and help with the rising cost of living. As more companies and governments take steps to support seniors, we might see an evolving system where older Australians aren’t just offered discounts but also dignity, ensuring they can live without the constant worry of making ends meet.
