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Food insecurity ballooned during the COVID-19 pandemic, and grocery prices have risen dramatically in recent years. Inflation, tariffs and corporate cost-cutting practices, such as shrinkflation, have compounded the issue. The economic pressures have pushed consumers away from traditional supermarkets and toward budget grocery stores and warehouse clubs. Here's how shoppers and retailers are redefining how to save money on groceries:
🛒 Budget grocery stores like Aldi and Lidl tend to be smaller than typical supermarkets. They carry fewer items, have smaller staffs and operate with greater efficiency.
🛒 Warehouse clubs like Costco and Sam's Club are popular with large families. They can offer groceries at modest prices thanks to their vast buying power.
🛒 Shoppers are increasingly embracing store-brand items. According to the Private Label Manufacturers Association, store-brand sales rose nearly three times faster than sales of national name-brand products last year.
🛒 Shoppers aren't just looking for cheaper groceries. They're also trying to avoid impulse buying. Grocery industry analyst Phil Lempert says people have been using shopping lists more than ever before. Consumers are also shopping online more to easily compare prices.
Saving money on food can be challenging. NPR's latest newsletter journey will help you choose, plan and cook three affordable meals over four weeks. The guide will also give you tips on dining out. Sign up for the How to Cut Your Food Bill newsletter here.
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