B.C. election campaign turns to grocery costs and seniors’ affordability

Floyd Brenz., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
October 04, 2026

Photo Courtesy: The Canadian Press

Grocery prices and affordability for seniors are emerging as key issues as British Columbia’s major political parties campaign ahead of the October 24 provincial election.

NDP Leader David Eby is defending his plan to cap what he calls unfair price increases on grocery staples. He said the proposal is aimed at multiple major retailers rather than a single grocery chain, despite the announcement being made outside a Save-On-Foods location.

The NDP proposal would place limits on retail margins for basic food items, including milk, eggs, butter, cheese, chicken and turkey, while also introducing measures intended to increase competition and address predatory pricing.

Eby said grocery distribution in B.C. is highly concentrated and that the cost of basic food has risen beyond inflation. The Retail Council of Canada, however, has questioned the approach, arguing that factors such as transportation, energy, labour and regulation also contribute to grocery prices.

The B.C. Conservatives, meanwhile, have focused on a previous NDP promise of a $1,000 grocery rebate. Conservative candidate Peter Milobar criticized Eby over the cancellation of that measure, saying the NDP leader is now seeking another mandate despite the unfulfilled commitment.

The B.C. Greens are also putting affordability at the centre of their campaign, particularly for older residents. Their platform includes increased monthly rental assistance for low-income seniors and vacancy controls in assisted-living facilities aimed at limiting rent increases.

With the election approaching, the competing proposals show how the cost of groceries, housing and senior support have become central parts of the campaign debate over affordability in British Columbia.