6 tips to spend less at the supermarket

1. Shop alone and satisfied

This is a classic, but it would be a shame not to repeat: Do your shopping after lunch! When full and satisfied after a meal, you walk the alleys of the supermarket without overflowing desires, and deaf to the call of sweets, cakes and other ‘temptations’ like chocolates.

Another rule which is tested and approved: Do your shopping alone! Without children, spouse or friends on your side. It has been proven that without companions, a shopper can expect to achieve up to 60% savings!

 2. Looking at real good quality/price ratio

Freshness, taste and nutritional qualities are the basic criteria of a good product. So beware of ‘very’ or even ‘too’ good deals such as ‘price shock!’. All things being equal, they are not always the best choice. Ask yourself if the small reduction they will grant you still guarantees the quality and flavour of the food concerned.

 3. Outsmart the ‘path’

Set a rule to always start filling your trolley with bottles of mineral water. Why? When you do your shopping, you can notice that this section is always placed opposite to the store’s entrance. And this is done on purpose for you to follow precisely the ‘path’ set up for you by marketers. Their goal? You cross all sections to better tempt you…. and thus fall in their traps. So browse the store as you see fit, not as they expected! Do not neglect the bottom shelves in each of the sections, or those placed high above because this is usually where the real bargains lie …

4. Resist the ‘new’

‘Madam, I beg you, try our new delicious recipe!’ In presenting their tasting trays, promoters want you to try knowing that eventually you will crack and then buy…

According to experience, when a representative actively approaches consumers, they are more likely to accept to ‘taste’ the product and also add it to their basket. The next time, beware, do not approach! On the contrary, make a point to go see the price of the competing brand of that presented to you: less advertised, you’ll often also find that it is cheaper for you.

5. Locate false specials

Be vigilant! In the supermarket, specials are often riddled with traps. Example: We all have tendencies to get tempted by great offers such as ‘Buy a pack of three, it’s cheaper’… Except that sometimes it is wrong and what is worse: it is legal! So do not let go of the habit of comparing products price/kilo.

6. Reduce waste

Most of us go to the supermarket once a week. However, it would be best to go there twice a month. Thus, you will be obliged to buy your fresh produce more often… elsewhere. This way, you eat more foods that have kept all their nutritional qualities, and your expenses will decrease by 20%. Less mess, more savings!

Melissa Beau & Laura Baquela