13 ways beyond coupons to save on groceries
by. Drew Trachtenberg
Couponing is a great way to save money on your weekly trip to the supermarket, but for many shoppers clipping, sorting and remembering your coupons is too much of a hassle. But there are other ways you can save serious money at the store. “If coupons just aren’t your thing, don’t worry, because there are lots of other smart ways to shop,” said Lisa Lee, editor in chief of SmartShop, a Consumer Reports. publication that in its September issue identifies a bunch of savings strategies. Still, she adds, if you’re a coupon clipper, “keep it up.”
The magazine’s survey of more than 1,000 women found that 82 percent make a grocery shopping budget and stick to it. The survey also found that women shoppers who try to save a buck here and there are using dollars stores, megastores and farmers markets more frequently than ever before, but they are cutting back on the use of convenience stores, drugstores and warehouse clubs.
1. Get carded
The best deals of the week go to loyalty card users. These items often include what are known as “loss leaders” — items sold at little or no profit for the store. Why do stores do this? To draw you into the store, with the hope that you’ll pick up other items as you shop. Some stores also reward you for spending more. Safeway (SWY) and Stop & Shop offer discounts at partner gas stations. Deals are also advertised in the weekly circular, and you can scan those savings onto your smartphone through apps such as Spoofee.com or SundaySaver.com.
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