Shoppers Cut Costs on Groceries Amid Rising Prices

Households are making tough choices at the checkout as the cost-of-living crisis deepens. A survey by Coles shows that most shoppers are cutting back on dining out, switching to cheaper brands and relying on discounts and loyalty points to manage tightened budgets.

The survey, conducted in January, highlights the growing financial strain on Australian families post-holiday season. Many are restructuring their spending habits, focusing on essentials while reducing non-essential expenses like media subscriptions and personal care services.

Findings indicate that 67% of shoppers are dining out less, while 58% are leveraging discounts and promotions to save on groceries. About 46% are opting for cheaper brands, and over half are using loyalty points for additional savings. Additionally, 33% report eating less meat, turning to affordable protein sources such as eggs and poultry.

Consumers are also adjusting broader lifestyle habits, with 38% cutting back on streaming and mobile app subscriptions to allocate more funds for food and essentials. Batch cooking and freezing meals have become common strategies, with one-third of shoppers adopting this cost-saving approach.

Supermarkets have observed a shift towards budget-friendly private-label products and lower-cost protein options like chicken instead of red meat. This economic pressure is expected to remain a crucial issue in upcoming political discussions, as rising household expenses continue to impact consumers nationwide.

Source: The Australian, Insider Retail, Gluten Free Wholesalers