DISCOUNT supermarkets are known for their in-store bargains, but there are some things they do to get you to spend more.
A consumer psychologist has shared the tricks that shops like Aldi and Lidl use with The Mirror.
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Chances are you’ve also left these shops with heaps more than you had originally popped in for.
But there are reasons why this can happen, right down to the “jumble sale” style lay out of the stores’ famous middle aisles.
Consumer Psychologist Dr. Cathrine Jansson-Boyd from Anglia Ruskin University said this lay out gives shoppers an “adrenaline rush” as they feel like they’re bargain hunting.
She explained that by the supermarket aisles starting off with “serious” items like vegetables and meats, the middle aisle breaks up the store with more fun products.
Dr Jansson-Boyd said: “This structure means that we will dig through and look for random things and have the perception, because of the layout, that it’s cheaper.”
The expert says the feeling that shoppers are getting a reward in the middle aisles continues around the store.
This in turn means that “you’ll leave the store feeling good about yourself”.
But, the expert warned that shoppers should be cautious in the special aisle because the deals aren’t always as good as they seem.
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Dr Jansson-Boyd also shared that Lidl differs slightly from Aldi because they sell branded products in amongst their own.
She said that these branded items are regularly on offer and that means that customers will buy more of them.
This is because they’re thought to be “real bargains”.
She explained “that’s Lidl’s real draw” as it makes shoppers think they should grab it in case they miss it.
How else can I save on my supermarket shop?
There are plenty of other ways to save on your supermarket shop.
You can try looking out for yellow or red stickers on products which show when they’ve been reduced.
If the food is fresh you’ll have to eat it fast, or freeze it to have another time.
Sometimes even timing your shop to stock up just as items are discounted on the shelves can help you get the best bargains – lots of shoppers have said this is in the evening typically.
Making a list could save you some money too as you’ll be less likely to make any rash purchases when you get to the supermarket.
Going own brand can be one easy way to save hundreds of pounds a year on your food bills too.
That means going for “own” or “value” type products instead of “finest” or “luxury” lines.
Plenty of supermarkets run wonky veg and fruit schemes as well where you can get cheap prices if they’re misshapen or imperfect.
For example, Lidl runs its Waste Not scheme offering boxes of 5kg of fruit and vegetables for just £1.50.
Parents can get up to £442 in Healthy Start vouchers that they can use at the supermarket, on food and more for their children, for example.
Plus, many councils offer supermarket vouchers as part of the Household Support fund – so you can make your money go further with the extra support available.
Do you have a money problem that needs sorting? Get in touch by emailing [email protected]
