It’s true that you can find some great deals at the grocery store, especially if you know how to coupon. With that said, the grocery store can also trick you into spending more money.
It might be getting you in the door with a special sale or tricking you with a 10 for $10 sale. Let’s take a closer look at ways grocery stores trick you into spending more money.
Offering an Unbelievable Deal
Did you know that grocery stores may make only $0.02 per pound on a great meat special or may even lose money on a deal? It’s true (they're called loss leaders), but there’s a catch.
The catch is that the store knows that people will buy other items while they’re there. This might be an overpriced gallon of milk or loaf of bread.
Whatever it is, it may cost more there than at other stores. Don’t fall for this trick. Go for the great deals and that’s it.
Putting Out Packages of Cut Up Meat
Did you know that many stores will cut meat for free? Yet, when you look at the meat case, you may see a whole pork loin for $1.69 a pound and sirloin chops for $2.98 a pound.
Don’t buy the chops. Buy the whole pork loin and ask your butcher to cut it. Not only will you get the exact cut you want, but you’ll save a lot of money. The pork loin you’re not going to use right away can be frozen for later. This is a great way to build your stockpile.
You can also check out: 5 Tricks to Save Money on Meat
Selling Items 10 for $10 or 5 for $5
Who doesn’t love the 10 for $10 sale. It’s too good to pass up right? Well, maybe not.
The truth is some of those items may only be a few cents off. For example, an item may normally be $1.05. In other words, this is not a stock-up price. Check the regular price of each item to make sure you’re getting a deal worth stocking up on.
Depending on your store's policy, you may not even have to buy 5 or 10 items to get each included item for $1 each.
Using Shelf Space Strategically
Items at your eye level (or your child’s eye level) will always be more expensive. Look up or down on the shelf to find items that are better priced.
Also, be careful of items on end caps as they aren’t always on sale or even a good price. The manufacturer may have just paid a fee for better placement in the store.
Pumping Meat Full of Solutions
You always want to check your meat to make sure it doesn’t have solution added to it. Sure, salt water can make meat juicier, more flavorful, and plumper, but you’re paying a LOT for that solution when you're paying for meat by the pound.
Read the label carefully. Some stores add as much as 15% solution.
Remember that just because the store claims something is a great deal, doesn’t mean it is. You need to be a conscious shopper and know what’s a good deal and what isn’t. Become aware of regular prices and the prices of all the stores in your area.