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9 Foolish Ways People Waste Money at Grocery Outlet

You can still fall into money-wasting traps at discount grocery stores like Grocery Outlet.

elegant female grocery shopping
Updated Oct. 15, 2024
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Grocery Outlet is a great alternative to typical grocery stores if you’re trying to save money on groceries, but it could also end up costing you more if you’re not careful.

The chain helps shoppers save money by offering items that may be surplus, have new labels, or are product overruns, among other things that can make them cheaper to sell.

But there are still ways you may be wasting money. So before you head into the store, here’s what to keep in mind when shopping at Grocery Outlet.

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Not checking the expiration date

joloei/Adobe expiry date printed on product can

Grocery Outlet won’t put items on the shelves that are expired, but they could be closer to the expiration date than items at other grocery stores.

It’s a good idea to make sure you check the expiration date before you take something home. Also, think about whether you’ll able to use it before it expires or you could end up wasting money.

Impulse buys

Kwangmoozaa/Adobe woman with trolley in grocery store

You may be excited about seeing your favorite name brands discounted at Grocery Outlet, but consider your budget and shopping list before grabbing them.

Creating a shopping list before you go to Grocery Outlet could be a good idea so you can stick to what you need without pricey splurges.

Grabbing something you don’t want

Syda Productions/Adobe woman searching shelf for product at supermarket

It can be tempting to grab a name-brand item simply because it’s cheaper at Grocery Outlet than other grocery stores.

Instead, stick with what you want, and don’t feel guilty about not snagging the discounted name brands if it’s something you really won’t eat.

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Not checking Grocery Outlet’s social media

bernardbodo/Adobe woman reviewing shopping list on smartphone

Grocery Outlet posts new products and sales on its social media sites that could help you find good discounts if you’re paying close enough attention.

You can also find recipe posts by Grocery Outlet using what’s stocked on its shelves so you can save money on new recipes you would miss otherwise.

Skipping price comparisons

Jacob Lund/Adobe woman buying grocery from frozen food section

You may think that Grocery Outlet has the best deals, but you could be wrong depending on the item.

It’s a good idea to compare Grocery Outlet prices to other places you shop and remember to compare per-unit prices for things that you could get cheaper at stores like Costco or Sam’s Club.

Check out budget-stores like Aldi to see how prices and products compare or look at the shelves of your local dollar stores, which could also have pantry items or sweet treats for an affordable price.

Trying to repeatedly find the same thing

LIGHTFIELD STUDIOS/Adobe couple doing grocery shopping and making notes of products

One of the ways Grocery Outlet gets such good deals is by scooping up items that are part of product overruns or surplus inventory.

That plan can save you money, but it also means that items may or may not be in stock, depending on when you go. You could end up spending more if you have to go to a different grocery store for a specific brand.

Relying on Grocery Outlet for staples

Minerva Studio/Adobe man holding trolley handle at supermarket

Grocery Outlet can also be inconsistent when stocking its shelves with pantry essentials. Searching and searching without luck could cost you time (and money).

Instead, consider watching local ads for other grocery stores in your area and grab exactly what you need when they have deals cheaper than waiting for Grocery Outlet.

Shopping at Grocery Outlet when it’s not nearby

Mediteraneo/Adobe happy family doing grocery with child

Grocery Outlet can save you money, but you could also spend more if you’re set on shopping there instead of other retailers.

Factor in transportation costs and consider if a local grocery store may be closer. You may pay more for groceries at the local store but spend less on gas.

Skipping the store’s emails

A_B_C/Adobe woman using smartphone at supermarket

Like other grocery stores, you can sign up for Grocery Outlet emails that can help you save money by snagging deals.

Signing up could get you a discount on your next shopping trip, so check out the store’s website to find out how you can save.

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Bottom line

Drazen/Adobe man using smartphone while doing grocery

Grocery Outlet can be a good option if you have a tight budget for grocery shopping, but to save the most on essentials, avoid mistakes that will waste money. 

The store also offers plenty of items for your home. Check them out so you can find even more ways to save money shopping.

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