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.”