THE UK’s cheapest supermarket for February 2024 has been named – and it could save almost £38 on each shop.
Consumer group Which? compared prices on 72 products from eight supermarkets last month.
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Shoppers could save £37.51 buying a weekly shop at the cheapest supermarket, compared to the most expensive, according to analysis.
The monthly data compares the price of essentials at eight of the biggest UK supermarkets to find where costs the most – and least.
And in February, Aldi stole the crown as the cheapest shop with a trolley costing £125.43 on average.
Lidl was just behind Aldi in this month’s ranking, costing £2.76 more – £128.19 on average.
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Waitrose was the most expensive shop, with a basket of groceries totalling £162.94 on average, which is 30% more expensive than Aldi.
This is a difference of £37.51.
The data shows how shoppers can make big savings just by changing where they buy their food.
Ele Clark, Which? retail editor, said: “Our latest research found that Aldi was the cheapest supermarket in February, with Lidl following closely behind.
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“With food prices continuing to put immense pressure on household budgets, it’s no surprise to see many people turning to the discounters, especially as shoppers could save up to 30% by doing so.”
The analysis includes special offer prices but not multi-buys or loyalty discounts.
But Which? doesn’t include loyalty card scheme prices because they aren’t available to everyone.
These prices are often lower than the shelf price but they are only available to customers’ who are signed up to their loyalty scheme.
The group is calling on the government and supermarkets to act now to make changes to help vulnerable customers.
For example, the grocery giants could make sure smaller convenience stores stock a range of essential budget lines.
Shopping discounts – How to make savings and find the best bargains
How can I save on my supermarket shop?
Shopping at cheaper supermarkets is just one way to save money on your food shopping.
You could also try making a list beforehand as you’ll be less likely to make any rash purchases.
Buying supermarkets’ own-brand goods instead of big-name brands will also help slash costs.
Some supermarkets also run “wonky” veg schemes, where you pay less for fresh produce that’s misshapen or imperfect and still perfectly tasty.
For example, Lidl’s Waste Not scheme means you can get five kilos of fruit and veg for just £1.50.
Checking how much a product costs per unit is a handy way to find the best value.
Look at the price per kg/lb/litre so you’re making a like-for-like decision.
And when shopping, don’t forget about supermarket loyalty schemes, where you can build up points to spend on a later shop.
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For example, Sainsbury’s has Nectar and Tesco has Clubcard.
Plus, look out for yellow or red stickers on food products that show they’ve been reduced.
