There’s an enormous amount of research that goes into the layout of a supermarket, what is put on ‘special’, when and why. I hope these tips help you avoid spending extra money and enable you to get the best deals.
Upper and Lower Shelves
Most of the time the most expensive products are placed at eye level, so if you’re not really short you might not spot the best deal for that product type. Why is this? We’re normally in a rush and therefore tend to select products that we see first.
A good look may reveal a different brand of product of equal or better quality, the only different… it’s a better price.
Damn Fancy Displays
Some supermarket displays are so tempting it makes for an almost irresistible offer. Beautiful, happy people experiencing life to the fullest in a display highlight the benefits of a product so well you just want to buy, the question is… do you really want or need the product? Or, is it just a good idea at the time?
Be cautious, they’re smart marketers who understand how to trigger buying emotions.
Purchase Limits
Quantity limits are often placed on products. It doesn’t always mean it’s a great deal. In fact, sometimes the product isn’t even discounted, the mind-set they’re trying to convey to the consumer is “this is a hot product, I should get it because the offer might not be available soon”.
Always be sure to double the pricing against other brands, and if it’s a product you don’t normally use ask yourself… “will I actually get any use out of this?”. It could just be a marketing ploy to move stock that will soon expire.
Add-Ons by the Checkout
Items by the checkout are placed there for good reason, you’re waiting in line and bored. Do you really need that snack that you’ll finish before you get home? It’s not much help if you’re trying to lose weight or concentrate on your health. Will you read that magazine with the catchy headline?
Price Per Unit
Normally when you purchase more you get a better deal, but not always so it pays to check. It’s all money in your pocket.
You see a 64-ounce bottle for what looks like a great price, it’s only $3.25 on sale. Wow! Check the price per unit, at $3.25 it comes to $0.051 per ounce.
The 40-ounce bottle is priced at $1.99, but your focus is on the 64-ounce. On closer inspection you would find that the 40-ounce is only $0.0498 per unit.
Hope this is helpful.