How to avoid supermarket shopping if you can (Supermarkets/Foodhalls - Tips & Comparison)

Member Name: jennikitten

Product:	Supermarkets/Foodhalls - Tips & Comparison
Date:	17/12/08 (22 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Support local businesses

Disadvantages: Slightly less convenient, can be more expensive

Supermarkets and foodhalls are the main places where I would say people in Western societies do their shopping. The main advantage is convenience - everything is generally all under one roof and there are pretty much all the essential products you need on offer. However, there are also a lot of disadvantagers to supermarkets - for example the monopoly they have and closing of local shops, their excessive advertising and persuasion to buy keeps you don't need, and the glazed over looks and attitudes of some of the people who shop there.

When I was in uni a surprising number of my friends boycotted (or tried to boycott) the local Sainsburys for the fresh marker, the local butchers, and various other small local shops. However a lot of them did end up going to Sainsburys as well because they couldn't find everything they needed. The other advantage is that they could get hold of things not found there, such as in the Chinese and Asian supermarkets which tend to sell more exotice things. Even staples like rice and noodles were much cheaper than than in supermarkets. However, unfortunately at least one of these shops has closed down now due to competition from other areas.

One of my friends has recently got into health foods and has a box of organic veg delivered to his house. The prices for this range and are based on set seasonal produce so you don't get exactly what you want, but it's convenient, good value and introduces you to new things. Locally there is also a vegan cafe which sells bags of locally grown veg at only £3. There are also vegan festivals in the city which are a great way to test new things and get cheap veg.

In terms of supermarkets themselves, I would say that most people use the one most convenient to them or the one they assume is the cheapest. With a little shopping around and consideration of local pickings as well, you can easily cut down on supermarket shopping without inconveniencing yourself. Support local businesses and you won't even have to grow the food yourself!

Summary: Give it a go