Many people become loyal to their grocery stores. The convenience combined with loyalty cards and perks make them less likely to think about checking other options. But in many cases, a store that gives you a good price on cereal or milk doesn’t necessarily provide the best selection or prices on other items such as apparel or electronics.
When you get in the habit of grabbing everything you need in one place, you may be running the risk of offsetting these small savings that were the reason you picked this particular store by paying more for more high-ticket items.
Although you may not have the time or willingness to shop around for every single item on your shopping list, there are many steps that can help you make sure that you’re still good deals where you’re shopping. Here are some ideas to get you started.
Shop somewhere else
Every once in a while make a point of taking your regular shopping list somewhere else. This will give you an opportunity to compare prices. It also will give you a glimpse of available options and alternatives such as store brands that can become at a competitive price.
Make some spot comparisons between what you have been paying for regular items. If the overall difference is close or none, you don’t need to take any action. In many cases, the slight differences in item prices are evened out on the overall bill.
Look for speciality shops
If you’re shopping for electronics, for example, make sure that you hit the electronics stores before you make a decision. These shops will probably provide you with a much bigger selection that help you save money by finding an option that meets your requirements and budget at the same time.
The same goes for almost every item on your list that is not a typical grocery store item. Checking out what speciality stores offer may give you a better selection and more prices to choose from. One warning to keep in mind, however, is how far the shopping temptation in a new store will drag you into spending. If your stop by, for example, a speciality spice stand will mean a full-fledged new shopping experience, that can end up a lot more expensive than grabbing an oregano can off the shelf in your grocery store.
Be patient with big purchases
Big grocery stores often have specials on big purchase items like televisions, computers, furniture or even cars, but an item that is discounted isn’t always a perfect item. Most of these purchases are not time-sensitive, but they are durable products that you probably will keep for years. So take your time to compare prices and specs. In addition, make sure that you explore any upcoming sales events that may even bring the prices down further.
If you’re not fully confident of your knowledge regarding the details of a particular item, ask the sales person and also do as much research as you can. Sometimes an item is attractively priced simply because it has been discontinued or for any other similar reason that affects your after-sale experience. That is why don’t rush in grabbing what appears to be a bargain on a grocery store shelf without fully researching it.
One of the reasons for making big purchases at a grocery store is simply your immediate need for an item. If you know that your phone is dying or you will need a new printer in a month or two, begin your research now. Of course, you don’t have to go shopping for items that you won’t need for several months, but making the purchase decision at the right time and without pressure can save you a lot of money and hassle.
The writer, a former Gulf News Business Features Editor, is a Seattle-based editor.
Where to buy
Don’t settle into buying everything in one place
Shop in new and speciality stores
Plan your big purchases in advance
Find places with big selections and options
— R.O.
