You may have noticed how many of the grocery stores you visit have similar layouts — you can find the milk in the back, fruit up front and more packaged and processed foods in the middle. Those layouts are likely intentional efforts to get you to spend more money, according to GoodRx.
Here are some tips from experts on some simple ways you can fight back and save yourself money on your next trip to the grocery store.
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The Layout Advantage
Andrew Lokenauth, consumer expert with experience in retail psychology, said these typical layouts are no accident.
“These stores are playing mind games with your wallet,” Lokenauth said. “The moment you walk in, you’re hit with the fresh flowers and produce section. They want you to feel good about shopping there.”
Lokenauth said some of the most expensive items are at eye level and the end caps of aisles. In addition, he said, the milk is in the back corner so you walk past dozens of tempting displays.
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Smart Tactics To Fight Back
Dr. Annie Cole, financial coach and founder of Money Essentials for Women, said one of the best tips to beat those store layouts is to create a shopping list, stick to it and focus your attention only on the areas of the store where your needed items are located.
“Remind yourself of your financial and health goals before heading to the store,” Dr. Cole said. “It might sound silly, but our behaviors often come from subconscious desires like being hungry or feeling like we deserve a treat.”
Lokenauth said to shop the perimeter first, where stores typically put meat and dairy.
“I also have a proven strategy to help spend less,” he said. “Grab a smaller basket instead of a cart and set a time limit for being inside the store. Also, only carry the cash you plan to spend and no cards.”
Lokenauth said one more trick is to watch out for those “10 for $10” deals. He said you usually don’t need to buy all 10 to get the deal.
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Sources
Andrew Lokenauth, AndrewLokenauth.com.
Dr. Annie Cole, Money Essentials for Women.
This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: How To Beat the Grocery Store Layout To Save Money
