Cutting Your Grocery Bills

  1. Be aware of the techniques stores use to get you go buy. Necessities such as milk are usually at the back of the store to get you to walk by all the other aisles first. Profitable items are usually at your eye level. The bakery is usually at the front of the store to entice you to buy with the fresh baked smell. Items at the end of an aisle doesn't necessarily mean a lower price.

  2. Always check your receipt before you leave the store. The computerized scanners may have been input with the wrong or non-sale price. Cashiers can make mistakes so keep your eyes open.

  3. Plan ahead by listing the items you need. Try not to shop more than once a week. The more you go, the more you'll be tempted to pick up something you don't need. It also wastes time since you'll have to drive to the store again and wait at the check-out line again.

  4. Try to stick to your shopping list when you're in the store, but be flexible if you find a good bargain.

  5. Check the unit prices and bring along a calculator if you need one.

  6. Before deciding on a store, compare the advertised specials and what you need. Most stores will have loss leaders to lure you in, but other items you need may cost you more. You may prefer one store for its meats and another for its produce. That's ok as long as you're not spending the whole day driving all over the city just to get the best prices.

  7. Stock up on items that will keep and that you can use if you can get a bulk discount.

  8. Store brands or generic items are always cheaper.

  9. Convenience foods usually cost more and give you less. Make your own "TV dinner" by freezing your leftovers. Buy prepared foods only if the time you save is more valuable than the price you pay.

  10. Cut your own meats. It's generally cheaper to buy a whole chicken than one that has been cut up for you. Cut your own beef into cubes for stew.

  11. Shop during off peak hours and after you've eaten. If you're hungry, you'll be in a hurry and less likely to compare prices. If the store is busy and you're waiting in line, you'll have more opportunities to buy expensive impulsive items close to the check-out.

  12. Don't forget to use coupons. If you find more coupons at the store but don't need the items, save the coupons for future use.

DE Coaching Team

Krista Schaus PICP CPT
Ontario CANADA krista@definingedge.ca

Kate Kline PICP CFT
Arizona USA
kate@definingedge.ca

DE Client Services

info@definingedge.ca

 

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