Here's the proof: It's worthwhile to comparison shop
Posted
Aug 06 2008, 04:35 PM
by
Karen Datko
Which store offers the best deals: the grocery store, the discount store or the dollar store?
Our partner blogger Donna Freedman today explored a similar question, and advised readers that the best prices for foods and sundries often can be found at drugstores and other alternatives to the standard grocery store. And now we've found a Web site that emphasizes her point. The Crazy Dollar Shopper compares prices of various products at three types of stores.
Mark Bykoski at The Crazy Dollar Shopper selects several items a day and compares prices at his local grocery (Publix), discount store (Target) and dollar store (Dollar General).
For instance, one product was Arm & Hammer Fridge-N-Freezer baking soda, with special vents to allow air to circulate through the box. Target was cheapest that day at 74 cents. Publix was next at 89 cents, and Dollar General was third and last at $1 a box.
How about Jell-O chocolate instant pudding and pie filling? (The package says "Calci-YUM!" which we suppose suggests it's good for you.) This time Publix came in last with $1.09 for a 3.9-ounce box. Dollar General was second with 85 cents, and Target was once again the winner, at 77 cents a box.
Attention, students and other frugalists: Here's the comparison on six packages of Nissin Top Ramen noodles -- Publix, $1.09; Target, $1.02; and Dollar General, $1.
Of course, this fledgling site has limited scope (although, if readers chime in, it could broaden). But it makes a good point. If you want the best price for a product, it's best to comparison shop -- and expand the types of stores you pay attention to.
