Local store lose profits over high egg prices

A conversation that most people are having at many breakfast tables is, “When are the egg prices going down?”  

The demand for eggs goes beyond breakfast: they're also for baking and other recipes needed like baking.  

The Market at EastPoint prides itself on healthier and affordable food options, but because of the increase in egg prices, it is forcing customers to leave them on the shelf, resulting in a financial loss for the store.   

“They're way too expensive,” said shopper Christine Bettencourt, who said she relies on eggs as a wholesome option.  

“Eggs used to be a cheap protein for me and my family, but we can't even afford it most days now because it's just not cost-effective,” added Bettencourt.  

The Market at EastPoint is one of the more affordable stores around town.  

Market at EastPoint assistant manager Sabrina Grey said these price hikes are not only affecting revenue but also impacting the customers.  

“They come in, they see the egg prices and they can't afford it. So, they end up not buying them. And so, on our end, we do try to lower our prices ourselves to where we're barely making a profit, just to help the community out so they can purchase eggs,” said Grey.   

Stores like Trader Joe's have a dozen cage-free eggs for $3.49.

Walmart has 60 eggs for $27.24.  

A Walmart employee stated two weeks ago 60 eggs were $20.

According to the USDA, there is very little chance of prices going down because of pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) impacting flocks.  

The USDA also said the bird flu has affected about 22 million birds to date. More than 245,000 birds have been impacted in Oklahoma.  

Grey added many customers opt for less healthy options, leaving eggs sitting on the shelves until the due date. Rather than letting the eggs rot, Grey said they scan them out and let the employees take them home.