Local price surveys help Grand Forks families save money Published Oct. 9, 2008 By Press Report AAFES GRAND FORKS AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- With a value proposition like "We Save You Money...Everyday" and a mission to provide military shoppers with quality goods and services at competitively low prices, the BX has to work double-time to deliver savings troops have come to expect. The Army & Air Force Exchange Service's assault on high prices actually begins with Michelle Varley, a Market Price Coordinator whose main duty is to compare the prices of top sellers in key categories with the local competition at least once a month. "Michelle is our eyes and ears outside the gate," said Pat Fields. "From gas to gum, she ensures the BX's prices are comparable, if not lower, than the competition." As Price Coordinator, Michelle conducts periodic checks at local convenience, liquor and big box stores, comparing prices on items in each department. The results are sent to the Sales Directorate Pricing Team at AAFES Headquarters in Dallas, TX. From there, pre-tax shelf prices are set to be comparable to the competition. Shelf prices are of primary concern because all products available at the BX, except for gasoline, are not subject to sales tax. In addition to regular, local price surveys, AAFES offers a "We'll Match It!" program that acts as a last line of defense to ensure shoppers at Grand Forks always receive the lowest price possible when shopping the BX. If a shopper sees a price differential of less than $10 they can simply tell the cashier who will match it on the spot. Anyone who reports a price difference of $10 dollars or more need only bring a current local competitor's ad to receive the reduced price. "AAFES is committed to having low prices," said Pat Fields. "From our Market Price Coordinator to 'We'll Match It!' Grand Forks Families can shop comfortably knowing this command is dedicated to 'saving them money everyday."