Saving Money on Groceries Made Easy

Particularly in a bad economy, saving money on groceries is particularly important. Despite companies lowering the price of goods and services to attract new business, this has not proved necessary for the sellers of food and drink.

People still need to eat, no matter how poorly the global economy is performing or how expensive it becomes to move produce from A to B. Grocery shares are considered a defensive investment for this very reason. Unless you own shares in the food retail giants, the chances are that this is not helping you.

Generic Brands

Switching from branded to generic food is an excellent way of lowering your food bill. However, don't make the mistake of buying too many of an item before you are able to establish that you like it. The quality of generic food does vary considerably. Buy a single item in week one as an experiment and only purchase more if you are happy with your purchase.

2 For the Price of 1 Deals.

Try to stock-up on special deals, particularly 2 for 1 offers. Whilst the requirement may not be immediate, buy it now and store it away for when the need arises. Don't buy things you'll never use just because they are cheap. Also, be careful when buying perishable foods.

Discount Vouchers and Coupons

Check in newspapers, as well as online, for discount food vouchers. Saving money on groceries is now possible because there are a number of great offers available to help introduce a customer to their brand or encourage additional business. Also be aware that there are special discount codes for buying food and drink online. This can help cover the cost of delivery.

Discounted Goods

Most major stores discount perishable goods at a similar time each day. Ask staff when perishable goods are normally reduced and save money on food by timing your grocery shopping trips accordingly.


Dollar Stores

Whilst traditionally associated with household goods, many dollar stores now make saving money on groceries possible. The number of stores is also set to grow dramatically. According to a recent article in the Los Angeles Times called "Dollar stores cashing in with bargain hunters." Dollar General plans to open 450 new stores over the course of 2009, whilst Family Dollar and Dollar tree intends to open about 250 stores each.

Set a Budget

Avoid credit card debt problems by setting a grocery budget. This forces you to ask yourself whether you really do need what you are intending to buy.

Shop Once a Week

It is possible to save money on food by reducing your number of shopping trips to just one a week. This is because, every time you visit a supermarket, you are enticed into buying new things. Limiting trips to the shop reduces the likelihood of an impulse purchase.

Don't Shop when Hungry

Never shop on an empty stomach. Research suggests that it increases the probability of buying more than is needed.

Avoid Convenience Stores

The price you pay for convenience is vastly higher prices. Buy food where it is cheapest, not where it is easier to do so.

Saving money on groceries can be achieved by changing the way you approach your shopping. Employing one or more of the simple strategies discussed above will help you to save money on food each week.

Sources

Jones, Sandra. (13 May, 2009). "Dollar stores cashing in with bargain hunters." Los Angeles Times.

Disclaimer: This article in no way attempts to give legal or tax advice. One should consult a licensed attorney, tax advisor, or other qualified professional before proceeding.