Amid rising living costs, retail workers are sharing insider tips to help consumers save money on groceries and essentials. From strategic timing to savvy shopping tactics, these professionals offer practical advice for budget-conscious shoppers.
Timing Is Everything for Discounts
Alasdair Baker, founder of The Penny Pincher website, explains that supermarkets typically follow a predictable discount schedule. "Most stores do early morning reductions of 10-15%, lunchtime reductions of another 10-20%, and final reductions of up to 75% off between 4pm and 6pm," he says. Fresh bakery items often see their biggest price cuts in the evening.
Retail consultant Catherine Erdly reveals that Tuesday is the optimal day for sale shopping. "Retailers hold trade meetings on Mondays during sale cycles to review what's not selling and make further reductions. Those new prices are pushed to stores on Monday evening, making Tuesday the best day for deals."
Smart Approaches to Reduced Items
When purchasing discounted items approaching their expiration dates, Baker emphasizes the difference between "best before" and "use by" dates. "Many items can be frozen or cooked and then frozen for later use," he notes. "With produce, you can use more discretion—I recently cooked potatoes I bought two weeks ago with a discount sticker, and they were fine."
Navigating Promotions and Loyalty Programs
While buy-one-get-one-free deals have become less common due to new regulations, Baker advises careful comparison. "Sometimes the own-brand alternative offers better value than the promoted brand item."
Store loyalty programs and apps provide additional savings opportunities. "Supermarkets increasingly offer personalized discounts through their apps," says supermarket employee Jenny Rogers. "Look for member-exclusive deals and don't forget to activate offers before checkout."
Erdly recommends signing up for retailer email lists: "Email subscribers often get first access to sales, extra percentage discounts, and welcome offers."
Strategic Shopping Locations
Baker suggests avoiding eye-level shelves where higher-margin products are typically placed. "Look down to find cheaper alternatives on bottom shelves." He also recommends exploring world food aisles for affordable staples like spices, chickpeas, and tomatoes.
Regarding end-of-aisle displays, Baker notes: "These prime spots aren't random—companies pay premium prices for this placement to encourage impulse purchases of big brands."
Creative Solutions for Food Waste Apps
Food redistribution apps like Too Good To Go and Olio offer discounted or free food that would otherwise go to waste. While the contents can be unpredictable, Baker sees this as an opportunity for culinary creativity. "Sometimes you get a bag full of lettuce and need to figure out what to do with it."
Greengrocer Mike Read, with 58 years of experience, adds: "Buying fresh ingredients and cooking at home is far more affordable than eating out and often cheaper than processed meals."
Maximizing Every Opportunity
Baker recommends checking for coupon codes and stacking discounts whenever possible. He also suggests looking beyond supermarkets for perks: "My energy provider gives me a free coffee each week—always claim what's available."
These insider strategies demonstrate that with careful planning and knowledge of retail systems, significant savings are achievable even during challenging economic times.