Summary
Instacart announced it will stop a program that showed different prices for the same items to different customers. This program was intended to help retailers understand customer price sensitivity but raised concerns about pricing transparency. Instacart has faced criticism from consumer groups and agreed to end the service immediately.
Key Facts
- Instacart stopped showing different prices for the same items to its customers.
- The program aimed to help stores learn what prices customers would accept.
- Consumer Reports and advocacy groups criticized the program for price differences.
- Instacart stated it was not dynamic or surveillance pricing but offered randomly.
- Customers could see up to five different prices for the same item.
- Instacart has offered this price-testing service since 2023.
- The company agreed to a $60 million settlement for deceptive advertising practices.
