How to Shop a No Frills Grocery Store for Savings

If you want to cut your grocery expenses in a hurry, try a no frills grocery store for savings.

What is a no frills grocery store?

There is a discounted chain of supermarkets by the same name, but for the sake of this article, we are referring mainly to the to deep discount supermarket chains. Generally, deep discount supermarkets offer a warehouse type environment without the giant packages.

What is shopping in a no frills grocery store like?

You can expect huge, well organized stores with full service bakeries, meat departments, produce and dairy departments. Services are pretty much the same as any other grocery store.

What is the difference between a regular supermarket and no frills store then?

Basically, the savings of 30% or more from the full shelf prices in your regular supermarket comes from store policies designed to save labor. You can expect the shelves to be neatly stocked with cases that have been cut open and paced on the shelves rather than products on the shelf itself, and you will most likely be expected to bag your own groceries at the checkout. Other than that, it is pretty much business as usual. Not much of a concession for the savings, and great saving it is.

Do no frills supermarkets still take coupons?

Most do, although a few do not. Check the store policies before you go. I will give you the heads up that deep discount no frills grocers do not double and triple coupons.

Is it crowded, will I wait a long time at the checkout?

The prices are low and a good value, so yes the stores do tend to be crowded with the worst crowds on the weekends. Shop at off hours and your shopping experience will be less hectic.

How about quality, are the products as good for the money?

Amazingly, the several stores I shop the most often, yes. I have found that the store brands are an exceptional value, and the national brands are well priced.

How do I get my best deal?

I use the same strategies you would use in a regular supermarket. I take a ton of coupons and use them even at the face values. Store sales are a great deal at discount grocery chains…especially on produce, meat and dairy items. Additionally, buy in bulk when the price is right, buy produce in season, and do not be afraid to try the store brands.

No frills grocery stores are a great way to save over 50% off your grocery bills without a lot of effort. Shop the sales, use coupons for extra savings and get big discount just for bagging your own groceries.