Latest news with #Erewhon
Gulf Weekly
a day ago
- Business
- Gulf Weekly
Talk ‘shop'
The Science of Shopping by Kate Hardcastle hits the shelves on June 24. The book is described as a 'no-nonsense guide to how and why we buy now', diving into the international consumer expert's experience of over 25 years. It explores the emotional, technological and psychological dynamics driving purchases, with real-world stories from top global brands, including Primark, Erewhon and Selfridges. Kate explained on social media that the drive to write the book came from her online observations of questions about consumers, which led her to create a 'helpful guide' that is shaped by her journey, listening to customers, helping businesses do better and learning from mistakes. 'Today's consumers are more empowered, informed and selective than ever before,' Kate stated. 'Their preferences, values, and buying habits are evolving at an unprecedented pace, and businesses must keep up or risk being left behind. 'Making a great product is only half the story. The rest is emotion, strategy, and trust. The Science of Shopping gives every brand, from global powerhouse to garage start-up, the tools to connect, inspire, and truly sell,' she added. In 2018, the broadcaster and commentator based in London was awarded a Member of the Order of the British Empire by Queen Elizabeth II for her contributions to business and entrepreneurship.
Telegraph
a day ago
- Politics
- Telegraph
Pro-Palestine thugs are becoming a threat to democracy
If you want to understand the mentality of 21st-century Leftists, you need to read a writer who died decades before they were born. Aldous Huxley is best known as the author of the dystopian novel Brave New World. But, in my view, his most chillingly brilliant lines are to be found in a foreword he supplied for an edition of Samuel Butler's Erewhon, in 1933. 'The surest way to work up a crusade in favour of some good cause,' wrote Huxley, 'is to promise people that they will have a chance of maltreating someone… To be able to destroy with a good conscience, to be able to behave badly and call your bad behaviour 'righteous indignation' – this is the height of psychological luxury, the most delicious of moral treats.' I remember those words every time I read about the gleeful cruelty of modern progressive 'activists'. Such as the anti-Israel protesters who have taken to targeting Luke Charters, the Labour MP for York Outer. Last week, Mr Charters has revealed, a group of masked thugs flung a tin of baked beans at him in the street, while chanting, 'Labour, Labour, genocide.' Then, on Saturday, around 20 of them tried to block the entrance to his constituency surgery, while bellowing, 'Luke Charters, you can't hide, we charge you with genocide.' As a result, he says, several constituents were too scared to attend meetings they'd arranged with him. What on earth could possess someone to think it's acceptable to hurl a tin at an MP (or, indeed, anyone?). Huxley knew. These foaming narcissists clearly believe that their cause is so unimpeachably righteous, they're entitled to bully anyone who doesn't share their fanaticism. And they do it with the most jubilant relish. Of course, Mr Charters isn't the only MP to be plagued by such people. One night in February last year, a mob of anti-Israel protesters angrily demonstrated outside the family home of the then Tory MP Tobias Ellwood. And last July, the Labour MP Rushanara Ali said that during the election campaign she'd 'spent as much time talking to the police and responding to threats and hostilities as I did talking to voters'. Certain groups, she said, had been 'weaponising' what she called 'legitimate anger about what's happening' in Gaza. Such behaviour goes far beyond 'peaceful protest'. If frenzied mobs are not only intimidating MPs, but deterring their constituents from visiting them, there can be only one conclusion. Pro-Palestinian thugs are becoming a threat to democracy. Still, I don't suppose they care. These moral treats are so delicious, they couldn't possibly give them up.
Los Angeles Times
6 days ago
- Lifestyle
- Los Angeles Times
Review: Erewhon, a taste of L.A.'s celebrity grocery scene
Imagine this: You are in your late teens/early 20s, navigating through new adulthood, and grocery shopping has been just about the last thing on your mind. After scrolling on Pinterest for recipes and looking at your overdue grocery list, you drag yourself to go to the grocery store and pick up your basic items: an assortment of vegetables, fruits, milk, proteins, eggs, snacks, and perhaps a quick drink for the sum of about $30-$45. Trader Joe's, Ralphs, and Stater Bros. might get the groceries you need for the week at a price you wouldn't mind paying. However, the trendy and macrobiotic grocery store next door promises celebrity-endorsed collagen-packed smoothies, hyper-oxygenated water, and supplements to turn you into the next supermodel. But here's the catch: it will cost you 20x more, all in the name of celebrity diets and optimized health. Erewhon has become a trend, a lifestyle, and a culture that the masses want to replace their average grocery store with. Grass-fed wagyu sliders and a $98 extra-virgin olive oil have replaced necessities and last-minute grocery store snacks. Their famous $20 celebrity-collaboration smoothies and plethora of foods for every occasion have revolutionized Erewhon as a grocery store for members of the highest tax bracket and a hot spot of LA's social scene. As a Los Angeles native and plant-based eater, Erewhon has always been on my bucket list. Their food spans all cuisines and caters to every dietary restriction. Having seen the controversy Erewhon has created, I decided to put its food to the test. As I walked in, I was greeted with their $200 tote bags and $30 flowers. How cute! I ordered four items: the Hailey Bieber strawberry smoothie, the gluten-free mac n cheese, buffalo cauliflower, and the organic Asian tofu sticks from their hot bar. My portions were smaller, and since they determined the price of food by the pound, while still expensive, I thought it would be no more than $40. I was wrong. The grand total of a singular plate and smoothie turned out to be $80. I was only left with $5 in my bank account, but I had hoped its collagen-infused drinks and 100% organic foods would make me feel and look like LA's best. While I did feel guilty, I reminded myself this was solely for research purposes … wink wink. First up on the list was Hailey Bieber's smoothie that made every teenage girl suddenly go feral for strawberries and coconut cream (me included). I took my first sip, and although I didn't want to admit it, it was worth every penny of the $20 spent. I would like to say the Strawberry Surfrider from Jamba Juice is a good alternative, but I would be lying to you. This drink was everything I needed. Creamy, sweet, thick, and the best part was I felt good about drinking it. Perhaps it was because every supplement known to man was packed into a 20-ounce cup. The harmonious blend of strawberries and cream hit my taste buds the right way. I was in love. Well done, Hailey. (Photo by Kavya Thakrar) After downing my smoothie, I moved on to the mac n cheese from my hot plate; it looked promising. It had a thick crust on the top and was still piping hot. I took my first bite, and although I had high expectations, I was considerably disappointed. That singular bite was $5 wasted. It was bland, and let's just say I would prefer Kraft over this any day. My final verdict: pasta is better with gluten. Before trying the buffalo cauliflower, I tried to get every last drop of my smoothie to justify the financial damage done. The cauliflower was home to the tiniest section of my hot bar container, with about four pieces. However, before I knew it, those four pieces were gone. Buffalo cauliflower is a generic menu item, an All-American appetizer if you will. While this cauliflower didn't necessarily stand out from the other cauliflower dishes I have tried (and being plant-based, it's a lot), it was still incredibly delicious. The spicy buffalo coating was paired incredibly well with the crispy bite of the cauliflower. Needless to say, I can understand why it's a fan favorite, and I would've enjoyed a few more pieces. After trying the viral items, I moved on to the organic Asian tofu sticks. I consider myself a tofu connoisseur; however, I've never seen a tofu like this before. I was a little apprehensive about trying these, as it was a last-minute purchase, and I wasn't sure if $20 could justify three cold tofu sticks relished in sauce. But when I took my first bite, my life changed forever. The tofu was the cherry on top and somewhat justified the price. It was a blend of your signature Asian flavors paired with the interesting texture of firm tofu. If you like tofu, you know it's either a hit or miss. When going to most restaurants, tofu is slapped on the menu so the franchise can be regarded as 'plant-based friendly.' Those were the expectations I had for Erewhon, but it more than surpassed them. The deep blend of flavors from the rich marinade kept me wanting more, and by the time the tofu itself was down, I was savoring every last bit of the sauce. (Photo by Kavya Thakrar) Did I like Erewhon? Could I say I enjoyed the $80 meal I was hesitant about trying before? That's a trick question…the answer is both yes and no. All in all, Erewhon has exceeded the norms of what a grocery store should be, including its high quality items, outrageous prices, and celebrity sightings. Was it worth the hype? Yes. Worth financial ruin to be my go-to grocery store? Probably not. Still, if you're ever in LA and want to taste what your favorite influencers and celebrities love to indulge in, and perhaps even a chance to see them, Erewhon is the place for you. Start adding funds to your piggy bank and see if it's worth the global hype. Related
Yahoo
13-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
This Country Produces The Most Strawberries Worldwide
Strawberries are a favorite summer fruit around the world. Where would we be without the sun-ripened strawberries that make shortcakes a family staple at backyard barbecues? Despite their ubiquity on our tables, most of the world's strawberries are produced further away than you might expect!China produces the most strawberries in the world. According to World Population Review, China produces 3.4 million tons of this sweet red fruit every year, nearly triple the amount of the second largest producer, the United States, which weighs in at 1.3 million tons. Turkey comes in third, producing just over 700 thousand tons a year. China's three major strawberry producing regions are Hebei, Shandong, and Liaoning, all located in the North. Hebei is known for the Great Wall of China, Shandong is known as the birthplace of Confucius, and Liaoning, connecting China to the Korean Peninsula, is an established strawberry region with over 80 years of production history. In 2025, China unveiled 12 new strawberry varietals at the 10th annual International Strawberry Symposium. These 12 new strawberries are only part of a long list of strawberry varieties available worldwide. However, strawberries are delicate, high-maintenance fruit and rarely travel far from their production zone. Regions outside of China cultivate their own breeds and export to local markets. Read more: Trader Joe's Dips, Ranked Worst To Best World Population Review also reveals that America is the world's second largest strawberry producer, with over 90% of its domestic production in California. In the Western hemisphere, Mexico is also a strong producer. Even though China produces the most strawberries, Mexico is actually the world's largest exporter of fresh strawberries, according to Tendata. That means we likely won't have Chinese berries in our strawberry dessert recipes any time soon. To highlight producers that have made their way around the world, look at Japan's luxury strawberries. Specimens from Tochigi prefecture hit Erewhon shelves and sell at nearly $20 for just one berry. The Oishii company has capitalized on Japan's tradition of prioritizing quality over quantity with its fruit production, leading to exciting collaborations and a beloved U.S. brand. While global strawberry production spans many countries and regions, one thing remains true: These fan-favorite fruits have made an impact wherever they are grown in the world and continue to be a vital crop for both restaurant and personal use. Next time you pick up a box of strawberries from your local market, check the country of origin -- it might surprise you. Read the original article on Tasting Table.
Yahoo
11-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
The Most Overpriced Grocery Store Chains In The US
The Economic Research Service (ERS) May 2025 forecast predicts that food prices will increase by 2.9% over the course of the year. This comes on the back of inflation and sky-high grocery bills we have been dealing with post-pandemic. In short, eating well certainly hasn't been getting any cheaper. In these uncertain times, it might be surprising to know that there are some grocery stores and supermarket chains that continue to thrive despite their higher prices. Yes, the fancy ones with mood lighting and $20 smoothies. But they've got several tricks up their sleeves. From loyal customers to pretty packaging, they coast on the belief that when you shop with them, you are getting better stuff than elsewhere. That said, if you're one of the many folks trying to make your paycheck stretch a little further, changing your shopping habits could make all the difference. According to U.S. government data, Americans spent 11.2% of their total income on groceries in 2023. That's a big chunk, and cutting back here and there can really add up. So, if you're looking to trim your food budget, here are some of the most overpriced grocery chains in the U.S. You might want to avoid them if you're not looking to blow your whole budget on artisanal cheese or fancy water. Read more: The Ultimate Ranking Of Grocery Store Rotisserie Chickens, According To Customers With humble beginnings in Boston circa 1966, today Erewhon has grown into an LA-based specialist market that is beloved by celebrities and influencers alike. From selling natural foods way before organic was cool, it has become what one YouTube video described as "part grocery store, part venture capital firm for wellness brands, and part social club for the wellness elite." With its fame spreading far and wide, it is no surprise that Erewhon is widely considered one of the most expensive grocery stores in the world. We are talking $19 for a single strawberry and $43 for a bottle of extra-virgin olive oil. Shopping for bits and bobs at Erewhon can easily cost more than a meal at a restaurant. Grab a bite from the hot bar or smoothie counter, and you might need a second job or at least a deep breath. Then again, maybe that's just the price of potentially spotting a Kardashian in the wild. One reason why Erewhon probably gets away with such high prices is the sheer range of products it has on offer that are not available elsewhere. That and the fact that "healthy," "clean," or "biohacked" labels have become a full-blown lifestyle flex. Have a $20 Hailey Bieber smoothie in your hand? It's basically the Chanel sunglasses of the grocery world: an easy entry ticket in the luxury wellness scene. While not a true grocery store chain, Eataly is more of an Italian gourmet market and restaurant chain that sells Italian foods. It was founded in 2007 by Oscar Farinetti, a proponent of the slow food movement. The first Eataly opened in Turin, Italy, and since then has gone global with numerous outlets in places as diverse as Japan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Korea. The first opening in the United States was in New York, and it has since grown to 10 stores in North America. A lot of the products are imported directly from Italy, while others like the fresh pasta are made in-house. Eataly specializes in Italian cuisine, so you won't find your usual grocery staples here. Most stores offer a range of fresh produce grown locally, and the meat and seafood counters look like they belong in a Michelin-starred kitchen. But fair warning: Those pretty displays come at a price. Case in point, Atlantic salmon is over $25 per pound. Of course, any place this expensive will have its detractors. One Redditor claimed that the pizza at Da Michele is better (which may or may not be true, but that's besides the point). The bottom line is that shopping at Eataly is pricey, and one shouldn't expect otherwise. Between the imported wines, artisanal cheeses, and inflation, it's best saved for special occasions or just wandering the aisles pretending you're in Milan or Rome. One of the largest grocery food chains in the country, Whole Foods has over 500 outlets in the United States and a presence in all but six states. Its focus is on selling organic and natural products, all of which must meet the brand's exacting quality standards. But these criteria come with a hefty price tag, which is why Whole Foods has a reputation for being one of the most expensive grocery stores in the country. There is no denying that the interior of Whole Foods is very appealing, with spacious and well-planned layouts that often feel more like a boutique market than your average supermarket. Ever since Amazon acquired it in 2017, the brand has been trying to rid itself of the "Whole Paycheck" moniker, but that will take some doing. Since then, the chain has set out to make organic groceries a lot more affordable and has expanded on its list of in-house label products. To be fair, prices have come down, but affordable is still relative. Organic products cost more by nature, and Whole Foods remains very much a premium brand. A 2023 study by the Philadelphia Inquirer found that Whole Foods was still one of the two most expensive grocery stores in the country based on the price of 18 basket items. So while Amazon's cost-cutting efforts have made a dent, they haven't exactly transformed Whole Foods into a bargain-aisle haven. Publix is an employee-owned grocery chain based in Florida and popular throughout the southeastern U.S. Its popularity seems a bit of a mystery since prices are noticeably higher as compared to other grocery chains such as Walmart or Lidl, yet customers keep coming back. Whether it's clever marketing or just customer loyalty, Publix seems to have cracked the marketing code. When you start comparing prices, though, the sticker shock is real. A Redditor pointed out that a box of family-size Cheez-It costs $4.98 at Walmart but a whopping $8 at Publix. That's a premium of 60%! Another shopper compared the prices of similar items at Publix and Lidl and found that he spent $40 less on groceries at Lidl compared to Publix. This difference in prices was almost across the board, including fresh herbs, vegetables, and meat. For example, even on sale, Publix's price for chicken thighs was higher than Lidl's by $1. Other Redditors talked about how poorly the company pays its employees, which paints the brand poorly, especially when you consider the higher margins. Publix, however, seems rather unfazed by all the criticisms and soldiers on, charging higher prices than its competitors, while its loyal fans keep filling their carts. The name Wegmans brings to mind a gourmet wonderland, with sprawling sections of ready-to-eat meals, a massive cheese shop, a sushi counter, and even in-store dining options. And all this with a variety of grocery aisles to shop from too. The vibe is unique and leans toward a European-style upscale shopping experience. For many, the sheer variety on display can be bewildering, especially if you are new to the store. So, is Wegmans actually expensive, or does it just feel that way? Turns out it's a little bit of both. The extensive range of products means that some items are at the higher end of the price spectrum compared to regular brands. And even though not everything on the shelves will drain your bank account, the products on display are attractive enough to tempt you into spending more than what you planned. Some customers say Wegmans is worth it for the quality and variety, but others remain unconvinced. On a recent Reddit thread, someone called out the hot food bar for charging $15.99 per pound. These inflated prices were also confirmed by a Consumers' Checkbook survey that found Wegmans' prices to be 18% higher than the all-store average. Sure, the quality might be top-tier, but for folks watching their grocery budget, that extra percentage can be hard to justify. A staple of the grocery industry in the Delaware, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania region for over 130 years, Acme Markets has been on the receiving end of a lot of negative press of late. If Reddit reviews are anything to go by, one would be hard pressed to find a single redeeming factor in favor of the chain. From crappy service to dirty shelves and high prices, Redditors seem to take delight in trashing it. One reviewer went so far as to accuse Philadelphians of Stockholm Syndrome because of their love for the grocery store chain. So what's the score with Acme, and are the prices actually higher than at other chains? A survey by Consumers' Checkbook of the different grocery chains in the Delaware Valley region found that Acme's overall prices were higher than the average by about 12%. Not only were the prices higher, but the quality was substantially lower than the average. That's a tough pill to swallow for anyone hoping to shop local and save a buck. With its recent acquisition by Kroger, the largest supermarket chain in the country, there are expectations that prices will come down, and shoppers are crossing their fingers for better prices and a more pleasant shopping experience. But for now, Acme struggles to keep its footing in the competitive grocery store chain industry. The Fresh Market, launched in 1982, was inspired by the open-air markets found in Europe. Its goal is to provide quality products to consumers, and on this front, it more than delivers. Its diverse range of items, such as fresh flowers, specialty cheeses, and other premium products, sets it apart from more conventional grocery chains. The stores are strategically located in more affluent neighborhoods, with noticeably bumped-up pricing. Voted by USA Today readers as one of the best grocery store chains in the country in 2024, it's also one of the more expensive ones. The management seems unconcerned about the "expensive" tag. "We aren't looking to be a natural grocery store, we are looking to be a specialty store", says their CEO, Larry Appel. The target consumer base seems to be high-income consumers in wealthy neighborhoods, and people who value premium products (i.e., the high-income shopper who doesn't blink at $20 cheese or a $50 roast). Translation? If you're on a budget, you're probably not the target audience. The Fresh Market caters to those who see grocery shopping as an experience and don't mind paying for the privilege. With over 250 stores across the southeastern United States, Harris Teeter is a popular grocery chain that promises top-notch products and services. The company prides itself on the quality of the meats and seafood it has on offer, as well as its deli, bakery, and wine sections. There is also a prepared foods section where you can get sushi, pizza, and salads if you're in the mood for a quick (and pricey) bite. Harris Teeter has long been associated in the same "expensive but nice" grocery chain category as Whole Foods and The Fresh Market. Since being bought by Kroger in 2014, some shoppers even insist that prices have slowly increased without the matching bump in quality, variety, or service. According to some reviewers, Harris Teeter is not worth the premium, mainly because of quality issues and lax services. Others argue it's still worth it for the convenience and selection, especially if you know how to work the system. There are deals to be had if you are willing to hunt for them. The weekly VIC (Very Important Customer) and eVIC specials can throw up a bargain, and many regulars take advantage of them. But if you're watching your budget like a hawk, it may not be your go-to spot for everyday groceries. Another very upscale grocery store in Southern California is Gelson's. It started in 1951 in Burbank and has since expanded into a chain of supermarkets that prides itself on its top-shelf produce, picture-perfect meat displays, and white-glove service. Naturally, all at premium prices. If you thought browsing at Whole Foods was an indulgent day out, Gelson's feels like a luxury private shopping experience. The chain openly claims to cater to the discerning customer, and everything about it, from the quality of service to the range of products, attests to this fact. The prices of the products act as a filter that helps keep them exclusive. Do not be surprised at eggs that cost $6.99 and more a dozen, or the same amount for a gallon of the least expensive milk. Prices at the prepared food section can run from $15 upward for a takeout meal. Sure, it's delicious and beautifully packaged, but when your grocery bill starts looking like your dinner-for-two tab, it stings. While it may not be as dear or have the same social cache as Erewhon, Gelson's still brings serious luxury vibes, and for Californians trying to stay within a limited budget, it's probably best admired from afar (or reserved for very special treat-yourself days). Natural Grocers is a chain that is riding the current trend of clean eating. To be honest, it has been doing this since before the concept even became cool. Founded by Margaret and Philip Isely, who launched the business after a personal health scare, the goal was simple: help people eat better and feel good as a result. To this end, the chain claims to stock only 100% organic produce, 100% pasture-based dairy, 100% free-range eggs, and only conscientiously and humanely raised meats. As is stated proudly on the website, it sells only the best natural, organic, gluten-free, GMO-free, and vegan foods in every department of the stores. The household and body care products are termed as "ecologically thoughtful," and the chain even has in-house nutritionists or Nutritional Health Coaches to advise you on the healthiest ways to spend your money. In addition, it refuses to carry a list of ingredients because of how they are grown, produced, and processed. Of course, organic anything isn't cheap, and Natural Grocers is no exception. The brand, however, makes no apologies for its prices and, with its focus on service and product quality, has developed an ever-expanding and faithful customer base. If you are looking to cut costs and make ends meet, though, you might want to give it a miss. For more food and drink goodness, join The Takeout's newsletter. Get taste tests, food & drink news, deals from your favorite chains, recipes, cooking tips, and more! Read the original article on The Takeout.
