Which grocery store has the best prices?
The story of a guy who shops online to protect his mental health, secret tips for Costco shoppers, and the definitive guide to bagging your own groceries are some of the things we are talking about this month.The complete series can be found here.
While grocery shopping, the most common question is "Could I get this cheaper somewhere else?"
Most stores offer the exact same products, but rarely for the same price.It is crazy-making.We decided to use a virtual grocery bag to compare prices.We searched for them at Whole Foods, Trader Joe's, a standard supermarket, and an online grocery delivery company.
Store-label products were chosen to level the playing field.We did not consider sale prices.Since the size of some products varied from store to store, we list two total prices.The cost to buy that particular bag of groceries is one of the things.The price per ounce on items that ranged in size from our sample set is the equivalent cost.
It felt like a Faustian bargain when Whole Foods was sold to Amazon last summer.We gained in cheaper prices because we lost in warm-fuzzies.A bag of groceries here costs more than the other chains.Whole Foods is committed to stocking only good-for- the-planet stuff, and one could argue that you get what you pay for.It's easy to shop with a conscience without having to read every label.There is usually a decent amount of shelf space dedicated to products from local artisans.The employees at the boutique-y stores get higher than average wages.If you want to save money, reach for the 365 store brand.It sells for super-low prices and has great reviews.
For people who see grocery shopping as a hassle, online shopping is the way to go.There is no shortage of options.Peapod is the oldest online grocery delivery company in the U.S., and since it operates in at least 23 urban areas, it is one of the largest.Instacart operates in 36 areas across the country, but it is more of a service than an online store.Peapod is a subsidiary of the parent company that owns the Giant Foods and Stop & Shop grocery chains, so it has all the familiar supermarket brands you know and love, plus its own bargain-priced store brand.It doubles manufacturer coupons.Money-saving options help when you have to pay a convenience fee.
There is a lot to be said for the standard supermarket.You don't have to go too far to find one.Outside of a major metropolitan area, places like Whole Foods, Trader Joe's, and even online options like Peapod aren't always within reach.Kroger is great at operating in the in-between.Kroger has big-time buying power and that means low everyday prices and great sales, plus you can use manufacturer coupons.Prices on organics can feel extortionate.The power greens in this bag are more expensive than at Whole Foods.It is helpful to do a little research if you are concerned about sustainable practices.Kroger has a vendor code of conduct that it enforces by auditing all of its international suppliers.The average wage for its employees is $9.79 per hour.
It feels like being a kid in a candy store when you just got your allowance at Trader Joe's.Tiny ice cream cones!There are cookies in a tub.There are mini peanut butter cups.I can buy them all for cheap.It is easy to see why TJ's has a cult following, because of the endless parade of trendy new products.The friendly staff and bargain-priced basics are what keep shoppers coming back.80% of TJ's inventory is private label and directlysourced from the producer, so it has the best prices on the stuff you need.It is well-known for being a great employer.Crew members earn an average of $13.20 an hour.Those who work 30 hours or more get benefits, including a 401(k) and tuition reimbursement.The staff is always friendly.
It isn't a pleasant experience to shop at Costco.Half of the people are blocking the aisles with giant flat-bed carts.Every grocery shopper has a soft spot in their heart for Costco.Why?It has low prices on everything you want.The Kirkland Signature brand is considered to be one of the best store brands in the business, often earning top reviews.The company is known for treating both customers and employees well.You can return anything, no questions asked.Wages start at more than $13 per hour, which is well above minimum wage in most areas, and both full- and part-time employees receive benefits.You will need the space and up-front funds to buy and store several month's worth of food at a time, because shopping at Costco means buying in bulk.You will probably leave with a few things that aren't on your list, because of the chain's great deals on home and lifestyle items.It requires an annual membership fee, though it can be earned back if you use the credit card or the Executive account, both of which pay back a percentage of your purchases.Membership costs will be justified if you buy gas in a few visits.