Meaning of "selling war surplus groceries" in historical text

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In summary, "selling war surplus groceries" refers to the practice during and after wartime periods where excess food and supplies, originally intended for military use, were sold to the public. This often included items that were overstocked or deemed unnecessary for military operations. The sale of these goods provided a way to manage surplus inventory while offering consumers access to affordable products during times of scarcity or economic hardship. This practice highlights the intersection of military logistics and civilian markets in historical contexts.
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I know that surplus is extra.

What is the meaning of it in the text below:
Jack Cohen realized in 1919 that he could profits from selling war surplus groceries and, in fact, Cohen started from a stall in East End of London. Tesco as a brand did not appear until 1924, when Cohen bought from T.E. Stockwell a shipment of tea, which was its first own-brand product.

From the document (in section 2 after the title "HISTORY OF TESCO PLT":
https://accid.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Case-Tesco-PLCformatv.pdf
 
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"War surplus groceries" would be non-perishable items that were used to feed the British soldiers during WW I. I suppose this would include various canned foods or things like dried beans and such.
 
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World War I created shortages. Britain began rationing in 1918. Rationing often results in (or indeed requires) that supplies be set aside for possible future demand. Thus the surplus in food supplies, where said surplus resulted from rationing caused by the Great War.
 
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FAQ: Meaning of "selling war surplus groceries" in historical text

What does "selling war surplus groceries" refer to?

"Selling war surplus groceries" refers to the practice of selling food items and other goods that were produced or acquired during wartime but were no longer needed by the military. These items could include canned goods, dried foods, and other non-perishable items that were stockpiled during conflicts and later made available to the public, often at discounted prices.

Why were war surplus groceries available after conflicts?

After conflicts, military organizations often found themselves with excess supplies that were no longer necessary for their operations. These surplus items were sold to civilian markets to clear out inventory, recover costs, and support the economy. The availability of these goods provided an opportunity for consumers to purchase food at lower prices, especially during times of economic difficulty.

What impact did selling war surplus groceries have on the economy?

Selling war surplus groceries had a significant impact on the economy by making food more affordable for the general public, especially during post-war periods when resources were scarce. It helped stimulate consumer spending and provided a boost to local economies. Additionally, it allowed for the efficient redistribution of goods that might otherwise go to waste.

How did the practice of selling war surplus groceries affect food quality?

The quality of war surplus groceries varied, as some items were well-preserved and still suitable for consumption, while others may have been nearing expiration or not stored properly. Consumers had to be cautious and discerning when purchasing these items, as the quality could impact their health and dining experience. Regulatory measures were often implemented to ensure safety standards were met.

Are there any historical examples of selling war surplus groceries?

Yes, one notable example is the sale of surplus goods after World War II in the United States. The government auctioned off excess military supplies, including food items, which were sold to retailers and consumers. This practice was common in many countries after major conflicts, as surplus goods became available for civilian use, helping to rebuild economies and meet consumer demand.

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