Consumer watchdog Which? has declared Aldi the UK’s most economical supermarket for the third consecutive year.
ANALYSING the costs of 30 essential grocery items at various supermarkets, Wethrift found Aldi to be the most budget-friendly, with a total basket cost of £33.25. Robust competition was observed as Tesco (£33.47), Sainsbury’s (£33.59), ASDA (£33.65), Morrisons (£37.11), and Ocado (£46.74) followed suit. Despite Aldi’s consistent win, the analysis revealed minimal savings, emphasising the competitive landscape of supermarkets adjusting prices amid the cost of living crisis.
Nick Drewe, a trends and retail expert at Wethrift, provided insights into the supermarket pricing dynamics: “The fact that – for the third year in a row – Aldi has come out on top as the cheapest UK supermarket for weekly shops is unlikely to come as a surprise to many. As shoppers navigate through the ongoing cost of living crisis, the impact that rising inflation is having on the prices of everyday supermarket essentials has been impossible to ignore.”
He further added, “With many competing supermarkets doing what they can to keep customers returning, the prices of items have started to vary significantly based on special offers and deals. So finding the so-called ‘cheapest’ supermarket may require shoppers to undertake some research ahead of time, based on one’s own specific needs and dietary requirements.”
The ongoing price analysis of the six UK supermarkets by Wethrift showcases the intricate variations in pricing strategies and discounts among competitors. The analysis revealed that while Aldi continues to lead, consumers can find competitive alternatives at Tesco and Sainsbury’s. As shoppers grapple with the impact of inflation, the choices for the most budget-friendly supermarket may necessitate consideration of individual preferences and dietary needs.
