When you are running down the grocery store aisle, the options can be overwhelming. On one hand, you see name-brand products, with their vibrant packaging and heavy advertising. On the other hand, there are generic items, which are often cheaper but not as well-known. Opting for store brands can be a wise way to save money without losing value.
Store brands are manufactured by outside manufacturers, under the store’s brand. Often, these products are almost identical to name-brand versions. The Private label vs national brand main difference? Private label options don’t come with the high costs of advertising that national brands build into the price.
Many people think that store brands are lower quality, but blind taste tests have shown that customers often can’t tell the difference generic brands and name brands. Especially when it comes to basic pantry staples like canned goods, the product is virtually the same.
In the case of medicines, the active ingredients are monitored and must meet the same standards, so whether you’re buying branded medicine or store-brand versions, you’re receiving a similar product at a lower price.
In other categories like toiletries, you might feel more hesitant to switch to generics, but it’s often worth it. Even if a product isn’t quite right, the money saved can add up over time. Many retailers even provide money-back guarantees on their private-label items, making it risk-free to try.
The important thing is that you don’t have to go all-in at once. Swap out a few staples initially—such as baking ingredients, household items, or snacks. Over time, you'll likely notice how much you’ve saved. By being open to private labels, you’ll notice significant savings in your household budget without feeling like you’re sacrificing quality.