Bulk Buying of Groceries from Wholesale Clubs
Purchasing in Large Quantities Provides the Best Prices
Nov 4, 2008
Many grocery items are sold in multiple sizes and choosing the right size can result in savings. Larger sizes usually carry larger prices, but often the larger size will lead to savings.
Stores like Costco, Sam’s Club and BJ’s can provide savings by selling items in bulk, or larger sizes. Even singles can save some bucks by buying smart.
Buying in Bulk Example
Beverages provide an easy to understand example. The price of a 20 oz. bottle in the grocery store for a name brand cola might be $1. If the price of a two liter bottle costs $2, it can easily be shown that the 2-liter is the better value.
Two liters are equal to 67.6 ounces, and simple division shows that the price per ounce for the two-liter is just under 3 cents, while the price per ounce in the 20 oz. bottle is 5 cents
With many choices, the situation gets more complicated. A 12 oz. can of soda could cost 75 cents (more than 6 cents per ounce) but a case of 12 cans may be sold at a discount. Converting the cost to a price per ounce will show the best value.
Things to Remember when Buying in Bulk
- Although the larger size may often be cheaper, it is only a value if it is used. Drinking half the 2 liter and allowing the bottle to go flat reduces the actual beverage consumed to 33 ounces, and the cost rises to 6 cents. Products that don’t spoil make for the best bulk choices, like tissues or paper goods.
- Larger sizes are not always lower cost. Sometimes a store will put the smaller size on sale to reduce inventory, or coupons can be used on either the small or large size. 50 cents off the price of small item may be enough to make it the better value.
- There may not be room for some of the larger bulk items, like a 24-roll package of paper towels, even if it is a better deal. Consider sharing some of the items with others in order to take advantage of the best pricing.
On the Trip to the Warehouse Store
Consider taking a calculator to the store, in order to figure the best price. Do not buy more than is needed for a few months. Items like batteries have a long shelf life, but not infinite. Almost everything falls apart or spoils eventually.
Buying the right items in bulk can lead to money savings that will provide a family the funds to buy some great luxuries, and running the numbers and finding deals can be great fun.
