When you are strolling down the supermarket aisle, the choices can be daunting. On one hand, you see name-brand products, with their vibrant packaging and heavy advertising. On the other hand, there are store-brand items, which are often more affordable but not as well-known. Choosing store brands can be a smart way to cut costs without losing value.
Private label products are manufactured by third-party companies, under the store’s brand. Often, these products are very similar to name-brand versions. The main difference? Store brands don’t include the high costs of advertising that name brands build into their pricing.
Many people assume that cheaper products are not as good, but blind taste tests have shown that customers frequently can’t tell the difference generic brands and name brands. Especially when it comes to common household items like canned goods, the quality is virtually the same.
In the case of medicines, the core ingredients are regulated and must meet the same standards, so whether you’re buying branded medicine or website store-brand versions, you’re getting the same thing at a fraction of the cost.
In other categories like cleaners, you might feel a bit risky to try store brands, though you might be surprised. In case a cleaner doesn’t meet your standards, the savings can add up over time. Many retailers even provide return policies on their private-label items, eliminating the risk to try.
The important thing is that you don’t have to go all-in at once. Swap out a few items at first—such as baking ingredients, household items, or basic groceries. Over time, you'll likely notice how much you’ve saved. By being open to private labels, you’ll notice significant savings in your household budget without feeling like you’re sacrificing quality.