Timing is everything when it comes to grocery shopping. Knowing when to shop can help you snag the best deals, avoid crowds, and take advantage of markdowns. Whether you’re looking to stretch your budget or shop more efficiently, this guide will help you identify the best times to hit the store and maximize your savings.
- When to Shop for Sales and Markdowns
One of the easiest ways to save on groceries is by shopping during markdown periods:
- Early Morning: Many stores mark down items like bakery goods, meats, and produce in the early morning to clear inventory. Check for “Manager’s Specials” or similar discounts.
- Evening Discounts: Some stores reduce prices on fresh items at the end of the day. Look for deals on deli items, pre-made meals, and bakery products.
- Weekly Sales Start Days: Grocery stores often begin their weekly sales mid-week, typically on Wednesdays, giving you access to fresh promotions.
- The Best Days and Times to Shop
Timing your grocery trip can help you save money and avoid stress:
- Midweek Shopping: Tuesdays and Wednesdays are ideal because stores are less crowded, and many sales start on these days.
- Early Mornings: Fewer shoppers and freshly stocked shelves make mornings a great time for efficiency and markdowns.
- Late Evenings: If you don’t mind slightly picked-over shelves, evenings often bring last-minute markdowns, especially on perishables.
- Avoid Weekends: Saturday and Sunday are the busiest days, making it harder to find discounts and deals.
- Merchant-Specific Timing Tips
Each grocery store has its own schedule for deals and markdowns. Here’s how to time your visits:
- Kroger:
- Weekly sales start on Wednesdays.
- Check the Kroger app for “Digital Coupons” and “Fuel Points” offers updated weekly.
- Shop early in the morning to find “Manager’s Specials” on meats and dairy products.
- Meijer:
- Take advantage of “10 for $10” sales, which often start mid-week.
- Look for unadvertised discounts late at night, especially on baked goods and fresh produce.
- Instacart Deals:
- Monitor the app for dynamic discounts and promotions that vary by day and time.
- Seasonal Sales and How to Plan Around Them
Timing your shopping with seasonal trends can lead to significant savings:
- Post-Holiday Markdowns: After major holidays like Thanksgiving or Christmas, stock up on discounted baking supplies, canned goods, and seasonal treats.
- Back-to-School Sales: Late summer is great for deals on snacks, pantry staples, and lunchbox items.
- Summer Produce: Buy fresh fruits and vegetables in peak season to save money and enjoy the best quality.
- Winter Deals: Look for discounts on canned and frozen goods during the colder months.
Pro Tips for Extra Savings
- Use cashback apps like Fluz and Ibotta to earn rewards on grocery purchases.
- Combine timing strategies with digital coupons from store apps like Kroger and Meijer for maximum savings.
• Plan your shopping trips around both weekly sales and end-of-day markdowns to optimize savings.
