When you are running down the grocery store aisle, the choices can be overwhelming. On one hand, you see name-brand products, with their eye-catching packaging and prominent commercials. On the other hand, there are store-brand items, which are often cheaper but not as well-known. Choosing store brands can be a wise way to save money without losing quality.
Store brands are produced by outside manufacturers, but sold under the retailer’s name. Often, these products are almost identical to their name-brand counterparts. The main difference? Private label options don’t come with the high costs of advertising that national brands build into the price.
Many people assume that cheaper products are lower quality, but research studies have shown that customers often can’t tell the difference store brands and popular brands. In particular when it comes to common household items like salt, the quality is practically identical.
In the case of medicines, the active ingredients are monitored and must meet the same standards, so whether you’re buying name-brand pain relievers or generic pills, you’re receiving a similar product at a lower price.
In additional areas like paper goods, it may seem a bit risky to try store brands, though you might be surprised. In case a cleaner doesn’t meet your standards, the savings will compensate over time. Many retailers even offer return policies on their private-label items, eliminating the risk to try.
The important thing is that you can start small. Swap out Save money on groceries a few staples initially—such as baking ingredients, cleaning supplies, or snacks. Over time, you may be surprised how much you’ve saved. By being open to private labels, you’ll notice significant savings in your grocery bill without feeling like you’re sacrificing quality.