Supermarket Price War: Tesco Takes the Crown, Asda Loses its Title as Britain's Cheapest Big Shop
In a surprising turn of events, the supermarket price war has seen a shift in the title of Britain's cheapest 'big shop'. After holding the top spot for over a year, Asda has been dethroned by its major rival, Tesco. This change, according to consumer group Which?, is based on a basket of 228 items, with Tesco offering a Clubcard deal that was £1.45 cheaper than Asda's total.
The study, which compares the average price of a shop consisting of popular groceries at eight of the UK's biggest supermarkets, reveals that Tesco's Clubcard offer is now the most cost-effective option. This is the first time Asda has lost its title since December 2024, and it's a significant change in the supermarket landscape.
But it's not just about the price. Tesco's regular shop without its loyalty scheme card was £52.13 more expensive than Asda's, highlighting the importance of understanding the full cost of shopping. Sainsbury's, Morrisons, and Ocado also had varying prices, with Waitrose being the most expensive on average.
However, when it comes to a smaller basket of 89 items, Aldi retains its crown as the cheapest supermarket, with those products costing an average of £164.74 across the month. Lidl, while not included in the 228-item comparison due to its smaller range, was still a strong contender, being £1.79 more expensive than Aldi without a loyalty discount.
Which? retail editor Reena Sewraz noted that while Aldi is the cheapest supermarket this month, Lidl remains a strong choice for many shoppers due to the ongoing price competition among discounters. For those who prefer a wider range of branded products, Tesco with a Clubcard can offer good value, but it's important to note that not everyone is eligible for the Clubcard.
The analysis also includes special offer prices and loyalty prices, but not multibuys. It's a comprehensive look at the cost of groceries, and it highlights the importance of shopping around to save money. With food bills still a major concern for many households, this information could save shoppers hundreds of pounds over the course of a year.
The data is based on availability across supermarkets each month, and it's a valuable resource for consumers looking to make informed decisions about their grocery shopping.
