New shopping technique claims to save thousands on groceries

We’ve all been guilty of overspending at the grocery store, especially if there’s a two for one special on a “luxury” item like ice cream or crisps. 

But a new supermarket “system” could help you save up to $5,000 a year. 

The system is so simple that perhaps some of you are already doing it.

If not, it goes a little something like this: shop in places where there is an Aldi nearby as supermarket giants Coles and Woolworths will reduce their prices and offer multiple specials in order to lure shoppers in. 

Apparently, this is called the “Aldi effect” and it’s saving savvy budget-conscience Australians thousands each year.

Sort My Money founder David Rankin says by splitting your shop you could save you between $70 and $100 each week. 

He recommends buying your essentials from Aldi and then “topping up” your shop with your favourite luxury items from Coles or Woolies. 

“Shop for needs not wants,” Rankin advises, adding that making a list when you run out of something at home and then sticking to it while shopping will also aide in saving you money.

Other tips from sortmymoney.com.au include dumping the junk food and eating before you shop so you’re not tempted to overspend. 

Rankin told Channel Nine News another way to stop yourself from overspending is to actually avoid those special deals. 

“The trick of shopping is to shop for needs, not wants,” he said. 

“If specials are going to divert you from that, it’s probably best to avoid them.”

Another top tip for saving on that weekly shop is to pay in cash according to Rankin. 

“There’s nothing quite like handing over good old fashioned notes and coins at the check out to get you to distinguish between needs and wants,” he said. 

Where do you prefer to shop?