Cost of cigarettes and beer going up

By the weekend, customers will see price increases for both cigarettes and beer in city supermarkets, tiendas and mercados. The increases are the result of a decision by distributors and producers.

The cost of a Pilsner grande (600cc) rises from 90 cents to a dollar. It is the fourth increase since 2008 when the cost to consumers was 67 cents.

Cigarettes will cost about 20 cents more per pack, according to store owners.

Fernando Luzuriaga, a tienda owner on Presidente Córdova, says he doesn’t believe the price increases will affect business. “It’s a small increase and customers will continue buying their favorite brands.”