| |
When grocery prices skyrocket, fight the urge to scream.
Instead, think of creative ways to find food. If you're used to
one-stop shopping at your local supermarket, these unexplored options
may help you drastically slash your grocery bill.
| Hunt down local specialties or find good deals at these supermarket alternatives. |
|
|
 |
| Think outside the supermarket |
|
|
|
Smaller, local
stores: Specialty stores may offer better sales support,
service and special deals. You'll get selection galore at a supermarket,
but you won't necessarily get the best products or salesmen.
Farmer's market: You'll find plenty of veggies
and fruits, and they'll be a lot fresher than in the air-conditioned
grocery store. Since the stuff at a true farmer's market is going
to be local, it's also going to be only in-season. But do you need
strawberries in February or asparagus in October? It tastes best
when it's freshest. And you're saving money by eliminating the middlemen.
At these markets, you can also often get other products such as
meats, breads or flowers. Many farmers' markets or green markets
are only available on weekend mornings, so plan your schedule accordingly.
Bakery outlets
and thrift stores: Again, eliminating the middlemen saves
you some bucks. Thrift stores are outlets for single brands, like
Entenmann's or Pepperidge Farm, and you'll find all your favorite
products for a lot less. Additionally, you can save up to 50 percent
on day-old goods. Believe me, day old does not have to mean low
quality.
Wholesale or
warehouse shopping club: These clubs often require memberships,
but you can save significantly on bulk or large-size purchases.
Know your prices, however, because not every purchase would be a
savings. Additionally, be careful not to go crazy buying products
in bulk that you are never going to use. One last warning: brand
selection can be small.
Food co-ops:
Buying in bulk does save money, but it isn't practical for single
people in small homes. In a consumer cooperative, you can take advantage
of the bulk savings, but the food is divided up between members.
You can save 15 to 50 percent, since you are eliminating those pesky
middlemen again. This plan can require more work from you as a member
of the cooperative, but the savings may make it worthwhile.
Your own kitchen,
yard and time: Hey, there's nothing like the old-fashioned
way. Consider growing your own garden
and baking your own desserts.
|
