Time and time again, I have mentioned this... but, I want to put it out there again! Grocery stores (and the deals that come with) will vary so so much by region! HOWEVER, with these three easy tips, hopefully, you will have better luck finding the best markdowns at YOUR local grocery store!
Tip #1: Go Earlier in the Day (Usually in the Mornings)
- Most stores will put out most of their markdowns during the mid-morning (if not all of their markdowns). I have found that shopping between 8-10 AM in the morning is the best time to find not only the most markdowns, but also the best markdowns.
- Especially if you go early, chances are, the markdowns are not yet picked over by other people, so you'll be able to have a nice selection to choose from.
- This tip might seem odd, but seriously! I have learned when it comes to markdowns (from personal experience), that it never hurts to ask! Stores markdown items to clear them from the shelves (for a variety of reasons), and so, it is a win-win situation for them!
- Stores want to clear these items (think of it as grocery clearance!), and so just check with your store and ask which days they usually markdown their items.
- Again, it will vary from store to store, but just ask!
- One of the reasons that stores will markdown items is because they are "close-dated". If you spot any items that may be "close-dated", ask a store employee if they might mark it down (because I have found that stores will miss items frequently, so it's a win-win, if you help them find these hidden markdown items!)
- HOWEVER, what is important to keep in mind is that MANY items can be frozen or refrigerated and stored well beyond their sell by or best by dates. Some examples include breads or meats, which freeze beautifully, and you can store those items in the freezer for at least a few more weeks if not more. Another example is eggs, which will stay perfectly fresh for at least a couple weeks when kept in the fridge.
- Other times, if you know you are going to use an item in a couple days, and the sell by/best by date is still a whiles away, go ahead and buy it and use it in your meal plan! Occassionaly, I will see an item and spontaneously, blend it in with my meal plan to use as part of a meal - saving me money and time to think of recipes to make!
- Keep in mind that I do NOT recommend purchasing items that are ALREADY way past their sell by or best by dates, particularly for certain items! Do what is best for your family!