How to save on shopping: practical tips for conscious consumers

The current market situation increasingly drives people to look for ways to save money, as wages often fail to keep up with rising inflation and, consequently, prices. This results in a decreasing budget available for spending. The competition among stores for customers is becoming more intense, with new strategies emerging to attract shoppers. Unfortunately, not all of these strategies are beneficial for consumers. Therefore, now more than ever, it is important to be a conscious consumer. In addition to using tools like Promoscore to find the best deals, it is also useful to follow the practices below, which can help balance your budget and reduce expenses.

1. Family size packaging

Products labeled as "family size" may suggest savings, but they are not always cheaper. Manufacturers might increase the price per unit, relying on the assumption that larger packages automatically seem like a better deal. Always check the price per unit (gram, liter, etc.) to determine if you are truly saving money. Comparing the unit price between the regular and family-sized packages can help you make an informed decision. Sometimes, multiple smaller packages might be more economical than one large package.

2. Store brand

Store brands, also known as private labels, are products that a retailer produces and sells under its own brand name. These products are often manufactured by the same companies that produce name-brand items but are sold at a lower price. Store-brand products can be just as good, if not better, than their branded counterparts. By choosing store brands for products such as dairy products, canned goods, and household items, you can significantly cut down on your grocery bill without any loss of quality.

3. Loyalty cards

Most supermarkets and large retail chains offer loyalty programs to their customers. By signing up for these programs, you can gain access to exclusive discounts, earn points for every purchase, and receive special offers tailored to your shopping habits. Make it a habit to carry these loyalty cards with you and scan them at every purchase to maximize your savings. Some stores also offer digital versions of these cards, making it easier to keep track of your points and rewards.

4. Testing new products

Retailers often provide samples of new products to encourage customers to try them. Take advantage of these opportunities to test new products without committing to a purchase. If sampling isn’t available, consider buying the smallest available size to try it out. This approach helps you avoid wasting money on products that you may not like. It's a good strategy for trying out new flavors, brands, or even entirely new types of products.

5. Promote "saving food" and "food sharing" at work

Start an initiative at your workplace where employees can share food items. Set up an area where people can leave food they don’t need, such as fresh items that would otherwise go to waste. This not only helps reduce food waste but also reinforce a sense of community and mutual support. Before going on vacation, check your refrigerator for items that might spoil while you're away and share them with your colleagues.

6. Products with short expiry dates

Products nearing their expiration date are often sold at a significant discount. Many stores have a dedicated section for these items, which can include products like dairy, meat, and bakery products. Buying these items can be a great way to save money, especially if you plan to use them promptly. Some stores offer "short date" boxes containing a variety of items with approaching expiration dates at a reduced price. This can be an excellent way to stock up on essentials while saving money and preventing food waste.

Regarding the last point, it is important to explain in more detail and illustrate how the expiration date information on the packaging works.

"Best Before": The "best before" date indicates when a product is at its peak quality. After this date, the item may not taste as fresh, but it is generally still safe to eat. Changes in texture, flavor, or color might occur, but the food will not be harmful. Examples of products with "Best Before" dates include pasta, rice, coffee, tea, and canned goods. It’s a guideline for quality rather than safety.

"Use By": The "use by" date is more stringent and relates to safety. After this date, the product can become unsafe to consume due to the potential growth of harmful bacteria or other pathogens. This label is commonly found on perishable items like meat, fish, fresh juices, and dairy products. Consuming these products after the "Use By" date can increase health risks, so it’s important to adhere strictly to these dates.

Conscious shopping is key to saving money and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. By following the tips above, you can effectively manage your budget and avoid unnecessary expenses.