One fresh food item offers better value for money at Marks & Spencer, despite the higher price tag
There’s nothing more frustrating than reaching month’s end with barely any cash left, which is precisely why I previously shopped exclusively at Lidl, as they generally offer the cheapest prices compared to other supermarkets. I’m passionate about budgeting and seeking out deals, but with the weather getting warmer, I’ve found myself drawn to all the picnic treats at Marks & Spencer.
I used to steer clear of Marks and Spencer entirely as it’s known for eye-watering costs and I didn’t fancy being stunned when reaching the checkout. Yet now that it’s warm enough to enjoy sitting outdoors in the evenings, I occasionally pop into M&S for nibbles for my tea, and it’s made me realise I can genuinely save cash shopping there.
From what I’ve found, the priciest products in M&S are indulgent items like chocolate, but if you’re after fresh produce like fruit, it’s actually more economical in the long term to shop there.
I’m absolutely mad about strawberries, and during this season, I frequently eat them nearly every day for breakfast or as an after-work treat, as I enjoy relaxing in the sunshine with them.
Though I recently realised I was spending virtually the same amount on a punnet of strawberries at Lidl and M&S, yet was receiving superior value at the supposedly pricier retailer.
Strawberries from M&S are typically superior quality in my view, which is why I favour purchasing them there as they generally keep much longer in the fridge.
Typically, I fork out £2.60 for a punnet of strawberries at Marks and Spencer, though occasionally I’ll splash out £4.25 on a larger pack when planning al fresco dining, or snap up a bargain at £1.48 when I spot a yellow sticker reduction, reports the Express.
My preference for M&S strawberries stems from their longevity – they stay fresh for up to a week without deteriorating. I recently purchased yellow-sticker strawberries, and they remain perfectly edible four days on.
By contrast, I typically spend around £2.99 on strawberries at Lidl, which can actually work out pricier depending on the M&S pack size I choose, and they generally only keep for a couple of days maximum.
Lidl strawberries are perfectly acceptable, but they deteriorate and develop mould far more rapidly in my experience, meaning I don’t get through them and end up wasting money purchasing replacement fruit.
I find myself binning more produce when shopping at Lidl, whereas buying my strawberries at M&S reduces my food waste and saves cash, as I’m not forced to replace anything.
I remain a devoted Lidl customer, and will always visit them for my weekly grocery shop for staple items, as they consistently offer excellent deals on everyday necessities.
That said, if you want your food to remain fresh for longer periods and avoid the guilt of discarding produce, then I’d strongly suggest purchasing fruit and vegetables from M&S if possible.
