A mix of global and local problems has pushed food prices up over the past year, turning once-affordable groceries into expensive items.
If you’re living on a fixed or low income, even small price increases can force tough choices at the checkout. But with some planning and an understanding of how supermarkets influence your spending, you can take steps to manage your grocery bill.
What’s on this page?
- Why food prices are going up
- Try switching supermarkets
- Look in different supermarket aisles
- Shop in other places
- Avoid paying for convenience
- Be smart about special offers
- Don’t fall for supermarket tricks
- Get organised
- Bulk buy the right items
- Try shopping online
- Use a food waste app
Why food prices are going up
In June 2025, food inflation reached its highest level in over a year. Market research company Kantar reported that supermarket prices rose by 4.7% in the four weeks to June 15, up from 4.1% in May.
Food was the main reason inflation stayed high overall. In May 2025, the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which tracks the cost of an average basket of goods and services, was at 3.4%—only slightly down from April’s 3.5%.
Items like chocolate, biscuits, and spreads have been among the fastest rising in price.
Consumer expert and Spendology podcast host Vix Leyton explains: “Rising prices, combined with problems caused by Brexit, global tensions, and high energy costs, have made the average food shop more expensive than ever.”
10 ways to reduce your weekly grocery bill
1) Try switching supermarkets
If you usually shop at Waitrose, moving to Aldi or Lidl might feel like a big change, but it can save you a lot—even if you just buy some things there.
According to the consumer group Which?, Aldi is almost always the cheapest option, with Lidl close behind. In May 2025, an 82-item basket cost £135 at Aldi and £184 at Waitrose—a 36% difference.
2) Look in different supermarket aisles
Don’t just stick to the main aisles. Other sections can offer cheaper items.
“For staples like herbs and spices, the world food section often has better prices and larger packs,” says Leyton. “You can also find value options on things like rice, beans, tinned tomatoes, and more.”
“Frozen fruits and vegetables tend to cost less and last longer. The baby aisle may also offer lower prices on things like cotton wool and body creams.”
3) Shop in other places
For products with a long shelf life, check websites like Approved Food, which sells surplus stock, or warehouse stores like Costco (if you’re a member).
Also, check out your local market or greengrocer. Depending on where you live, prices for fruits and vegetables—especially when in season—can be much lower.
4) Avoid paying for convenience
Kevin Mountford, a personal finance expert at Raisin UK, points out: “Pre-grated cheese and pre-cut vegetables cost more for the convenience.”
“For example, Tesco grated mature Cheddar costs £11 per kilo, while a block of the same cheese is £8 per kilo. Grating it yourself can save you money.”
“Tesco carrot batons cost £3.12 per kilo, but loose carrots are only 69p. That’s a big markup for something you can do at home.”
Choosing loose items also reduces packaging, which helps the environment.
5) Be smart about special offers
Avoid ‘three for two’ or ‘buy one get one free’ deals unless you really need the extra products. These offers can make your final bill higher.
If it’s something you use often, and the price is right, go for it. But don’t let deals tempt you into buying things you won’t use.
The same goes for ‘yellow sticker’ markdowns. These can be great if you have a plan for them or space in your freezer—but they’re not helpful if the food ends up going to waste.
6) Don’t fall for supermarket tricks
Sarah Coles from Hargreaves Lansdown says shoppers often choose items at eye level. “Brands pay for those spots, so you’re more likely to pick the expensive ones. For the best prices, look on the bottom shelf.”
Supermarkets also rearrange store layouts to throw off your usual routine. “They do this so you’ll explore more and buy extra things,” says Coles.
“You’ll often see big items on sale by the entrance, which encourages you to grab a trolley instead of a basket. This makes it easier to buy more.”
7) Get organised
Making a shopping list before heading out helps you stay focused and avoid impulse buys. Supermarkets are designed to make you spend more—from the smell of baked bread to the music they play.
A list helps you remember everything you need, avoiding extra trips that could lead to more spending. It also supports meal planning and batch cooking. Cooking larger portions of stews, soups, or curries saves time, energy, and money.
8) Bulk buy the right items
Buying in bulk is only worth it if the food will last. Dry goods like rice, oats, pasta, and beans can be stored for months, and larger packs usually cost less per serving.
If you have freezer space, consider buying family-sized packs of meat. These cost less per kilo, and you can divide them into smaller bags for future use.
9) Try shopping online
Some people enjoy in-store shopping, but you may save more by shopping online. Many people say they spend less this way.
Online shopping still shows you deals, but it’s easier to stick to your list. You won’t pass by tempting snack aisles on the way to what you need.
Another advantage is seeing your total before checkout, giving you time to remove items if needed. That way, there’s no surprise at the register.
If online shopping isn’t for you, try using a scan-as-you-shop device if your store offers one. These let you track your spending while you shop.
To use these tools, you’ll often need to download the store’s app and join its loyalty program.
10) Use a food waste app
The Too Good To Go app links users with shops, bakeries, and restaurants selling unsold food at lower prices. Surprise bags usually cost around £3 or £4 and can offer about 70% off the usual value.
This helps reduce food waste while saving you money. The catch is you don’t know exactly what you’ll get, and it often needs to be eaten quickly or frozen.
Olio is another app offering free food that’s near its expiry date. It works with supermarkets like Tesco and Sainsbury’s, along with local stores and individuals.
You can also use Olio to buy low-cost surprise bags from Iceland. Free items are usually available later in the evening when stores give them away. You’ll need to use the app to request food from nearby volunteers.
