Why supermarket prices differ by state and store
Supermarket prices in Australia can differ by state and by store because of freight costs, regional promotions, local competition and, at IGA, independent owners setting their own prices. For a brand, a single national price hides these differences.
Updated 5 October 2026
What drives the differences
- Freight and distance, especially in WA, NT and regional areas
- Promotions that run in one state or region only
- Local competition between nearby stores
- Independent stores (such as IGA) that set their own prices
Why it matters to brands
If your rival is cheaper in WA but not elsewhere, or your promotion didn't run in Queensland, a national average won't show it. Price by state does.