A Supabarn outlet in Kingston has apologised after a "mistake" saw them selling face masks at a significant mark-up after a sudden mask mandate was announced for the ACT.
Late on Sunday night Canberrans posted photos of packs of 50 disposable face masks being sold at $120 a box at the supermarket chain — about three times their standard price — expressing anger at what they saw as price-gouging.
A spokeswoman for Supabarn confirmed on Monday afternoon that the price change had occurred but said it was a mistake.
"We are aware of the situation," the spokeswoman said.
"We are doing our best to keep up."
The ACT government had on Sunday announced new requirements to wear masks indoors from Monday, with a 48-hour grace period for people to adjust.
Not wearing masks could result in a fine up to $8,000.
Mask mandate prompts supermarket rush
Online, some Canberrans said the announcement has caused a rush that had made it difficult to get hold of masks, as they also shared photos of empty supermarket shelves where toilet paper should have been.
Health researcher Sundus Nizamani, who shared a photo of Supabarn's $120 mask pack, called the price markup was an "insane" decision.
"I’m glad I have my reusable one from last time as the new prices are just too much," Dr Nizamani wrote on social media.
A spokeswoman for ACT Consumer Affairs Minister Shane Rattenbury said there was no general prohibition against selling goods at marked-up prices.
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