Man shows dystopic 'digital pricing' system that changes costs in real time at local grocery

It is no secret that technological advancements have been reshaping traditional economic models. While there is no denying that such advancements have boosted productivity, they have also introduced complexities in labor markets and contributed to inflationary pressures. This was highlighted by TikTok creator Kenneth Munoz (@twoideas) in a viral video where he documented a digital pricing system at his local grocery store that adjusts costs in real-time. The video struck a chord with viewers, who expressed concerns over the system’s potential to manipulate prices and drew comparisons to a dystopian future where consumer control is increasingly eroded.

"So, these are the new digital price screens," Munoz began, introducing the fancy yet contentious technology. "The whole goal of these is to adjust the prices on items as they become more in demand," he said. Munoz went on to detail how the system works, noting that prices rise automatically when demand spikes or inventory runs low. "Let's say around 6:00, or during the busier times, these prices could jump by a dollar. Right now, for example, these items are 90¢, but they'll fluctuate based on demand," Munoz added.

As Munoz showcased the dynamic pricing model, a text overlay on the video read, "Food items prices differently throughout the day." Highlighting the system's connectivity, he explained, "These screens are linked to the WiFi and the registers, so the prices update in real time." While the technology was designed to enhance efficiency, many viewers expressed unease about the potential for price hikes during peak times. The video resonated widely, garnering over three million views on TikTok and sparking debates about the implications of such real-time pricing systems.

@scoots6789 commented, "I'm never shopping anywhere they have digital pricing. I'll switch stores. This is insane!" @henksbanks raised a brilliant question as he wrote, "Dynamic pricing doesn't make any sense when a product has already been produced for a given fixed price." @pierrebab added, "So, if I take a long time shopping, the price will go up by the time I get to the cashier? How is that even legal?" Meanwhile, @danshields posed an intriguing question, "Should the employees also receive dynamic pay? If they work the busier shifts, they should get a surge in pay during those busy hours."

@connor chimed in, "Imagine shopping and trying to budget and not cashing out in time and it changes on you. I can't imagine these will stay legal with pricing laws in some states." @hereforthethrills wrote, "Imagine if workers made more for their labor during high-demand times." @spitfyrequeen questioned, "So now, Americans have to budget for taxes and figure out if the marked price is going to be valid when they get to check out?"

Munoz's video also sparked widespread concern over the fairness and legality of dynamic pricing, prompting many to question its impact on both consumers and workers. In response to a comment stating, "Dynamic pricing grocery items should be illegal," Munoz shared a follow-up video addressing the issue. He remarked, "Ya, it should be, but then again, if you look at cars at dealerships, if you look at gas... gas changes every day. And look at the rents." His comparison highlighted how dynamic pricing has already permeated various industries, further fueling debates about its ethical implications and potential consequences.

You can follow Kenneth Munoz (@twoideas) on TikTok for more lifestyle content.