Yep, I can get them in grocery stores around here, but I have to be careful … some are the smaller version of the LDRCPs, which in my opinion are inferior from a taste and texture standpoint. I like the big honkin’ ones that are the size of my hand (well, almost); those were the ones I used to find packaged for individual sale at convenience stores. They’re softer and have a creamier feel.
Walmart carries this version in a 12-pack, so I’m not completely out of luck. But it’s sad to see a rack of Little Debbie products at Circle K that doesn’t include my Raisin Creme Pies.
It’s probably because retail theft has become so prevalent. Pretty easy to sneak one into your pocket. A whole big box of them, that’s another thing. Not sure if Covid is the cause, but this has become a huge problem in some cities. It got so bad in Albuquerque that Walmart closed two of their stores.
What Sauran said is true too. Rather than hike their prices, companies are downsizing their wares and using cheaper ingredients, although its hard to see how much cheaper sugar and enriched flour can be. Hence the smaller sizes for the sale 'ol prices.