If you are among the Canadians who are always looking for ways to stretch their dollar, then you are definitely also one of the people who do cost-conscious Christmas shopping. Christmas markets are, for example, a fantastic place to shop, featuring many traditional and international goods that are well worth the splurge.
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But not everyone lives in the proximity of a Christmas market and not every Christmas market is for those on a budget.
Canadians who are very conscientious about their spending usually know where to shop for best prices and good quality foods during this time of year. Sometimes it’s the local markets that win over big retailers, but other times it’s the other way around because it’s just a whole lot easier and a time-saver to shop for everything or most of what you need in one place.
And there are supermarkets that do offer quality products at lower prices. These five stores can save you money if you are not looking for anything over the top for the festive season.
Loblaws
Loblaws is perfect for buying cheaper fruits and vegetables. They carry the Naturally Imperfect produce line that basically features imperfectly shaped and colored fruits and veggies otherwise perfectly edible.
Produce in the Naturally Imperfect line sells at up to 30% cheaper and the range features sweet peppers, apples, mushrooms, carrots and other fruits and vegetables. Typically, you’d also find a produce rack with other discounted products at every Loblaws.
No Frills
Compared to Loblaws in terms of variety and quality but more accessible financially speaking, No Frills is the go-to for last-minute shopping, stores opening on Christmas Eve from 9 am to 5 pm.
No Frills usually carries lower prices, but they are currently offering special holiday pricing points for a range of meats, beverages, holiday foods and produce. You should also be able to find Loblaws’ Naturally Imperfect line at your local store.
Foodland is very popular in Canada, and they are known for a great selection and convenient prices that they carry on a daily basis. The produce is very nice, and around the holidays they have special buys for meats like turkey and whole chicken, vegetables and fruits like asparagus and pineapple, desserts like gourmet cakes and premium ice creams plus beverages and drinks for the holidays.
If there’s one supermarket where you should be able to find everything you need for festive meals, Foodland it is.
Food Basics
Food Basics is owned by Metro which explains why you should always expect well-priced foods and good quality here since Metro itself carries them.
You’ll find discounts on typically reduced merchandise now. Meats, produce, juices and cheese are very popular products around the holidays, as are bakery goods. Fruit cakes, shortbread cookies, cheesecake, panettone, apple pies and store baked goods feature at Food Basics throughout the holidays.
For many Canadians a preferred local store, Safeway has probably the best meats selection of all mentioned stores, in terms of variety and pricing that is. Their holiday offerings include made-to-order foodie trays, specially priced turkey, sparkling wines, desserts and deli cheeses. Overall, they do carry a wonderful Christmas selection.