The May issue of Consumer reports showcases supermarkets and grocery shopping in general, evaluating categories such as the service, the cleanliness, and of course, the price. Besides the specific grocery store evaluation, there’s also some interesting information on how you can save money almost anywhere, with tips such as checking the “low-end real estate” on the aisles. The space on the prime shelf of each aisle is often the most sought after, and some manufacturers even pay for those spots. Take a look at the super-high “would you mind helping me with this, sonny” shelf, and you may find a similar product from a different brand, at a much better price.
They even compare the prices of particular products at a regular supermarkets vs. a warehouse style shop like Sam’s or Costco. Costco has some great deals, but there are some products that really aren’t saving you money. You just feel that way because you are walking about with a 100 pound pallet of pasta. My top picks at Costco: batteries, Roma tomatoes, lamb, and beef.
A subscription to Consumer Reports is very inexpensive, I highly recommend getting one for more information on this topic and others (particularly automobiles).
Anyways, 59 supermarkets were rated, and while many of these chains are regional (such as Ralph’s, which holds a special place in my heart due to the ) there are quite a few locations in our area which they have rated. How’d they fare?
#2 – Trader Joe’s
#3 – Publix
#7 – Costco
#8 – Whole Food’s
#14 – Aldi
#20 – Super Target
#37 – Kroger
#38 – Sam’s Club
#56 – Wal-Mart Supercenter
I have never shopped at an Aldi or a Super Target, but this looks pretty much right to me. Of course, this doesn’t include locals like Your Dekalb Farmer’s Market, Buford Highway Farmer’s Market, or Super H. If you aren’t buying your spices at YDFM then you are sadly overpaying.
Anyone else have any thoughts on this? Where else do you like to shop in Atlanta?