When you are strolling down the grocery store aisle, the options can be daunting. On one hand, you see name-brand products, with their vibrant packaging and prominent commercials. On the other hand, there are generic items, which are often more affordable but not as well-known. Choosing store brands can be a wise way to save money without sacrificing value.
Private label products are manufactured by outside manufacturers, under the store’s brand. Often, these items are very similar to their name-brand counterparts. The main difference? Store brands don’t come with expensive marketing campaigns that national brands build into the price.
Many people think that store brands are not as good, but research studies have shown that customers frequently can’t tell the difference Supermarket money-saving hacks store brands and name brands. In particular when it comes to common household items like flour, the product is virtually the same.
In the case of medicines, the active ingredients are monitored and must comply with the same safety rules, so whether you’re buying branded medicine or store-brand versions, you’re receiving a similar product at a lower price.
In other categories like paper goods, it may seem more hesitant to try store brands, but it’s often worth it. Even if a product isn’t quite right, the money saved can add up over time. Many stores even provide money-back guarantees on their private-label items, eliminating the risk to try.
The key is that you don’t have to go all-in at once. Swap out a few staples initially—like baking ingredients, household items, or basic groceries. Over time, you'll likely notice how much you’ve saved. By being open to private labels, you can make a big difference in your grocery bill without missing out on the quality you expect.