Grocery Shopping tales – Save as you Spend!

Ever wonder why after all your careful planning it seems as if there is never enough money?

Well that is the case for many consumers.  They are frustrated as they try to hold on to their cheque books as the bills continue to rise.  I think that what also compounds the problem is that often persons have to contend with struggling to purchase basic food items but these are the items whose prices seem to increase rapidly.

For example, it was only a few years ago that bread and milk were considered staple items in Jamaican homes.  That is no longer the case as persons are avoiding a hefty grocery bill by getting along with less items. During a recent visit to a grocery store, I noticed one woman carefully examining loaves of bread before replacing them on the shelves with a regretful manner as she walked away.

My solution to the crisis of rising food bills has been to substitute more expensive items with those that cost less. For example, powdered milk costs far less than its more expensive liquid counterpart.

Tinned sardine and mackerel are more affordable than if you had purchased tuna and they still maintain a similar nutritional value.

Shop smarter

The smarter way to shop is to utilize any discounts and offers that help you to save money. For instance, Hi-Lo supermarkets recently partnered with Grace Kennedy and have offered their customers special discounts.

Customers who apply online are issued with gk value rewards cards which accumulate points each time you shop.  The points can be redeemed for phone credit, vacations and gift certificates.

On April 18, 2015, gk value rewards members who shop at Hi-Lo in all its locations will receive up to $1000.00 cash back.  There are conditions to this offer, as customers must spend between $5000.00 -$10000.00 in order to be given the cash back. Consumers will be given the cash back in the form of store coupons.

If you can find other loyalty programmes at other supermarkets join them so that you can save even while you spend. Buying things in bulk wholesale can also be a good way to save money over the long term.

So how do you shop smarter? Drop me a line.

Teri Ann Renee Paisley

Gleaner online writer

Tags: discounts