Unfortunately as with all Supermarkets you get the good the bad and sometimes the Ugly. There was a TV program a couple of months ago (whistle blower I think it was called) that highlighted dubious procedures even within Tesco and ASDA, the marketleaders within the UK. Somerfield falls in 5th place and yes because it doesn't have the buying power of the big boys, it is a little more expensive, and is aimed more at the convenience market. However they do match Tesco on price on the top 170 sellers including Milk and a few bread lines and as a group they won the title of having the freshest Produce of any retailer in 2006. (ahead of Tesco, Asda, Sainsbury and even M&S). Standards in Somerfield have improved to such an extent since going private that they now feel confident advertising on TV again for the first time in 3 years. The issue you describe with mince may be due to promotional packs replacing standard, usually the standard packs would be knocked down to the same price before coding became an issue, staff training is perhaps lacking in your local store or perhaps they have suffered from High staff turnover recently leaving a skill gap. (They should have a comments box at the front of store, did you use it!? - or speak to the manager, I'm sure he/she will address any concerns you have). I've been in alot of somerfields over the years and have always found the staff very friendly and helpful, and the offers they have at the moment are great for stocking up for Xmas and the New Year - Roses and Quality Street tins both half price at �4.99 and 12 Pack Tennents / Carlesberg also at �4.99, as well as a host of other great offers, all adevrtised on TV. In summary, nobody is 100% all the time and Somerfield more than any retailer at the moment is prepared to listen to their customers and try and fix any issues they may have, give them a chance, at least they are more local and easier to shop than your 70,000sq/ft Supermarkets!!