Why Store Loyalty Doesn't Pay

A few weeks ago, we talked about the no-no behind being product loyal, if you're out to save money. Just like you can't be completely loyal to a product, you also can't be completely loyal to a store. One stop shopping has it's conveniences, but I promise you will end up paying more than you should.

I've talked before about how at one time, I was convinced that by shopping at my local Aldi (which I have got to talk about soon, because I do still really like it), I was saving more money than the average bear. I was also convinced that I could buy store brand products at Kroger and save just as much money (but we've also talked about my filmy cereal and Financial Guy putting his foot down on that one...). Truth is, I was wrong. Now, having said that, it is completely possible that if you do not shop ahead and take advantage of stock-up prices that when you are completely out of a certain ingredient, you probably can save more money than by using a coupon and buying a national brand product.

Are you ready for the geek-a-zoid in me to come out? --Quick, somebody stop me from grabbing my parachute pants and doing "The Robot" and dancing to Freak-A-Zoid by Midnight Star! (Shout out to my peeps who grew up in the '80s)  Okay, now that you'll be singing that for at least the next 3 days...
You should seriously consider making a list (spreadsheet or not) of all the products you use on a regular basis. Start scrounging for coupons and when those go on sale, stock up with enough to last you 2-3 months.
Also consider purchasing items you may only use a couple of times a year, when you catch those on sale, as well. Hopefully in doing this, you won't be caught paying a non-sale price, especially if it's something for which you never have a coupon.

I am often asked how many stores I visit when I do my major grocery shopping twice a month. Here they are, for those who may not have seen this list previously: Kroger, Aldi, Walmart. Depending on the sale items, I will visit Publix, CVS, and Rite Aid weekly, if needed. In doing this and not being dedicated to one particular store, I have slashed our grocery budget in half-- and remember, we are a family of 6, with twin boys who eat like they may not ever get to sit down to a plate of food, again.

It totally pays to INconvenience yourself and make those extra stops, even if it's just one a day after work. I know, it stinks; nothing's easier than getting everything in one place. However, if you feel like your dollars are already getting a workout, make them work in your favor --not the grocer's-- and shop around. At the very least, comparison shop and make stores that will honor those competitor prices get after it! You'll be doing some break dancing of your own, as you leave the store! :)