Does Cash Really Mean Trash? An Empirical Investigation into the Effect of Retailer Price Promotions on Household Food Waste

Abstract Retailer price promotions, and in particular multi-unit deals such as the ubiquitous “buy one, get one,” are often criticized a cause of food waste, presumably because they lure households into buying more than can realistically consume. In this research, authors combine field data experiments to provide first systematic test claim. The data, which span eight frequently purchased perishable foods, show no evidence positive relationship between single-unit or promotions waste. fact, that took advantage deal reported wasting less did paying regular prices (RPs), but only when quantity was larger usual. Given result, also consuming freezing more, hypothesize promotion-induced overbuying triggers concern for waste encourages prevention. One experiment finds support mechanism. A second shows effect on concerns is moderated by perishability versatility unaffected convenience healthiness. Overall, then, research invites regulators other professionals rethink their stance work with retailers design smart campaigns motivate awareness management.