When you’re looking down the grocery store aisle, the options can be overwhelming. On one hand, you see name-brand products, with their eye-catching packaging and prominent commercials. On the other hand, there are store-brand items, which are often cheaper but less familiar. Choosing store brands can be a wise way to cut costs without sacrificing value.
Private here label products are produced by outside manufacturers, but sold under the retailer’s name. Often, these items are very similar to name-brand versions. The main difference? Private label options don’t include the high costs of advertising that national brands build into the price.
Many people assume that store brands are lower quality, but research studies have shown that customers often can’t distinguish between generic brands and popular brands. In particular when it comes to common household items like sugar, the quality is virtually the same.
In the case of medicines, the core ingredients are monitored and must comply with the same safety rules, so whether you’re buying branded medicine or generic pills, you’re receiving a similar product at a lower price.
In other categories like toiletries, you might feel more hesitant to switch to generics, though you might be surprised. Even if a product isn’t quite right, the savings can add up over time. Many stores even offer return policies on store-brand products, eliminating the risk to try.
The key is that you can start small. Swap out a few items at first—like baking ingredients, cleaning supplies, or snacks. Over time, you'll likely notice how much you’ve cut from your budget. By being open to store brands, you’ll notice significant savings in your household budget without feeling like you’re sacrificing quality.