Save more on grocery shopping

smart shopping

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Saving on grocery shopping

Rising food prices place a noticeable strain on household budgets, as they are a consistent part of everyday expenses. In particular, spontaneous purchases and choosing expensive branded products increase spending. So what are some ways to reduce spending? Simple steps such as using a written shopping list and opting for private labels help lower grocery costs. Comparing product prices and changing small shopping habits noticeably ease the pressure on the budget. Especially for products you frequently place in your shopping cart, it's worth taking a closer look at more affordable alternatives. Many private labels are not only affordable but often deliver good quality as well. Unlike brands that are well known, private labels avoid costly advertising and additional distribution expenses. This is precisely why they are usually more affordable than branded products and a simple way to save money when shopping. The list of ingredients also provides useful information to better assess a product.

Mother and child buying fresh fruit at a farmers’ market.

Woman holding shopping list while buying groceries at farmers market.

Writing a shopping list

Always do your weekly shopping with a shopping list. The list helps you stick to the items you actually need. That way, you avoid unnecessary expenses. Anything not on your list stays on the shelf. Stick to it, even if it takes some discipline at first. It’s also worth checking the weekly deals. Many supermarkets run new promotions every week. If any discounted items fit your weekly plan, write them down right away. Your shopping list keeps you focused and prevents impulse buys. Supermarkets are often designed so that staple foods like meat, milk or bread are placed at the back of the store. On the way there, you pass by numerous products and special offers that catch your eye. As a result, more items usually end up in your shopping cart. If you consistently stick to your shopping list, you’ll save not just money, but also time. And don’t forget: Never shop on an empty stomach. You're more likely to buy more than you planned.

A young man crouches in the supermarket in front of the bottom shelf to pick out affordable groceries.

Saving with own brands

Every time we shop, we face the same decision: branded product or own brand? Out of habit, we reach for the familiar brand, assuming it offers better quality. Yet own brands are usually equally good and significantly cheaper. On average, they cost about 20 percent less than comparable branded products. Own brands belong to the supermarket and are sold exclusively in its stores. They use simple packaging and avoid costly advertising. That keeps design and marketing costs down. Branded products, by contrast, come from manufacturers who supply many retailers. They spend heavily on advertising and striking packaging. In the end, it's the customer who covers those costs. Savvy shoppers know: Branded products are placed at eye level, where your eyes naturally go first. Cheaper options are often found on the top or bottom shelf. It’s always worth comparing products on your weekly shopping trip. Choosing own brands saves money while offering comparable quality.

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