Recently I bought a block of chocolate (the well known brand remains nameless) for the same price as I have done many times before. Except this time, the block of chocolate was thinner. The chocolate block was the same surface area in size but was not as thick. The comparison of weights exposed the fact that the ‘new’ blocks are much lighter than the ‘old’ blocks…but the price was the same.
I felt a little ripped off.
Now, the company in question hasn’t done anything wrong. They just slipped in a price rise for their product by changing the weights but making it still look the same. This is a common business tactic to soften and hide the price hike from the consumer… and most fall for it.
I still feel ripped off.
Differing weights and differing measures— the LORD detests them both.
Proverbs 20:10
The chocolate incident is a deception. Personally I see it as no different than the butcher who places his thumb on the scales to boost the weight of the sale. Both have the effect of charging more for the product. However, while one remains legal and the other illegal, both are morally wrong.
Why do I make such a big deal about such a business savvy ploy?
Deception is subtle form of dishonesty. Honesty is fast becoming a commodity of convenience.
Whatever you do, and no matter what the consequences may be, be honest. And while the short term impact may affect you, the long term benefits will sustain you.
Be honest in all your plans, dealings, conversations, actions and thoughts… today.