If you've been paying attention, you've probably noticed a new grocery store popping up everywhere-the now-familiar DALI logo in bright pink. DALI has been expanding rapidly since its first store opened in February 2020 in Santa Rosa, Laguna. By the end of 2022, they had already opened over 250 stores across the Philippines! No wonder I've seen at least three DALI stores near me recently.
I had heard a lot about DALI from TikTok vloggers, but none of the locations were close by-until now. With three stores in my area, I finally had a chance to check out their DALI Everyday Grocery in Congressional Avenue Extension, Quezon City. Honestly, the location surprised me. It's not easily accessible for commuters, but since I have a car and the traffic wasn't bad that Sunday, I decided to explore. Plus, their parking is more convenient compared to the other two branches nearby.
First Impressions
Walking into DALI, the vibe hit me instantly-it felt a little like walking into a zombie apocalypse survival supply store, but tidier. The space was bare, lacking décor, and not very well lit. The atmosphere wasn't particularly welcoming, even the lone staff member wasn't that friendly. What stood out was that people were packing their groceries themselves-into eco bags, paper bags, or boxes. It was all very DIY.
But here's the thing: despite the dull atmosphere, the low prices were amazing. My total bill came to only around Php 700-800, and I walked out with a ton of items-everything from bread to spreads, noodles, and beverages. If you're shopping on a budget, DALI is a game-changer. The noodles were especially tasty, while the spreads were okay (not my favorite, but the kids loved them). The Halloween chocolates I grabbed were a hit with everyone, and I have to admit, they were delicious!
DALI's Controversy: Legal and Consumer Issues
While DALI's prices are a big draw, there's been some controversy surrounding the brand. In the news, DALI recently had to remove several in-house products that looked "confusingly similar" to some well-known Philippine brands. Specifically, they took Kulina Banana Catsup and Rajah Puro Vinegar and Soy Sauce off their shelves because they resembled Nutri-Asia's UFC and Datu Puti products too closely.
The Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) issued an injunction earlier this year, and DALI complied by removing the items in June 2024. They're still processing legal motions, but it's a clear sign that this growing brand is facing challenges as it expands. Beyond this legal battle, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has received 13 consumer complaints against DALI. These complaints were highlighted in a letter from a consumer group, as shared in an interview with DTI Consumer Protection Group Assistant Secretary Amanda Nograles.
As a shopper, I get the appeal of the low prices, but as a business owner (if I were one), I can see why these complaints are happening. The similarities in packaging could easily confuse consumers. While I was browsing DALI, I definitely noticed some products that looked very similar to other well-known brands.
What is DALI? The "Hard Discount" Model
So, what exactly is DALI? It's based on a German supermarket model called "Hard Discount." The idea is simple: keep operations lean and efficient to offer consumers rock-bottom prices. DALI follows this model by:
- Buying products in large volumes to reduce costs.
- Spending very little on advertising.
- Choosing economical locations for their small, basic stores.
DALI supplies a limited selection of food and non-food items-covering essential everyday needs. Their products range from basic foods like rice, oil, sauces, and snacks to personal care items like soap and toothpaste, as well as household essentials like cleaning products.
The store is leanly staffed, typically with only two cashiers and no baggers. This helps cut labor costs. Products are displayed in their original boxes, and they avoid elaborate store designs and unnecessary advertising. It's all about efficiency, which translates to savings for the consumer.
My Final Thoughts
Despite the bare-bones setup and somewhat lackluster ambiance, DALI gets the job done when it comes to providing affordable groceries. The variety of products is decent, especially for essentials, and the prices are hard to beat. Sure, it's not the most exciting shopping experience, but if you're looking to save money, it's worth the trip.
As for the ongoing legal and consumer complaints, I think it's something that DALI will have to navigate carefully as they continue to grow. But as long as they maintain their low prices and continue to offer value to shoppers, I can see them becoming a staple for budget-conscious consumers across the country.
Would I go back? Definitely-but maybe not when I'm in the mood for a more pleasant grocery shopping experience. When it's all about the budget though, DALI is a great option.