Finding ways to save on your weekly supermarket shop can make a big difference to your budget. One way to reduce costs is by shopping at the right time. Here’s when you should head to the supermarket to get the best deals and discounts on your groceries.
1. Shop in the Evening for Discounts
Most supermarkets start marking down perishable items like bread, meat, and dairy products in the late afternoon and evening. If you shop after 6 PM, you’ll often find yellow sticker items—products that are nearing their sell-by date but are still perfectly good to eat.
Items like bread and meat can be frozen for later use, so stock up on discounted goods even if you won’t use them immediately.
2. Avoid Shopping at Peak Times
Shopping during peak hours—typically between 5 PM and 7 PM on weekdays—can mean you’ll face crowds and limited stock. Prices are often more stable during these times, and special discounts may be less frequent. To get the best bargains, avoid these busy periods.
Shopping early in the morning or late in the evening on a Monday or Tuesday is often the quietest time and the best for securing markdowns.
3. Midweek Shopping for Special Offers
Many supermarkets launch new special offers and discounts midweek, usually on Wednesdays. By shopping on a Wednesday or Thursday, you can take advantage of these promotions before items sell out.
You should check supermarket websites or apps before heading out to see what offers are available, and plan your shopping list accordingly.
4. End-of-Month and End-of-Day Discounts
At the end of the month, some supermarkets may introduce additional discounts to clear out stock, especially if they’re preparing for new seasonal ranges.
Shopping towards the end of the month can be a good opportunity to find bargains, particularly on household goods and pantry staples.
Shopping at the right time can significantly reduce your supermarket bill, with many deals available in the evenings, midweek, and towards the end of the month.
