UK shoppers are being encouraged to buy bread after 6pm on Fridays to take advantage of significant discounts, according to industry insiders. With the ongoing Cost of Living crisis and global tensions impacting prices, money-saving experts are sharing valuable tips to help households stretch their budgets further.
Alasdair Baker, founder of The Penny Pincher—a money-saving website launched after his bankruptcy 12 years ago—explains how timing can maximize savings. “Most stores offer early morning discounts of about 10% to 15%. Some apply midday reductions of 10% to 20%, followed by final markdowns between 4pm and 6pm that can reach up to 75% off,” he told The Guardian.
Baker adds that retailers strategically schedule deeper discounts later in the day to highlight bargains and clear stock efficiently.
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Jenny Rogers, who has worked in a UK supermarket for four years, confirms that fresh bread is typically discounted after 6pm, if available. She notes, “Tesco and Co-op often mark loose bakery items such as pastries at half price during the evening.”
Retail consultant Catherine Erdly also sheds light on store sales cycles. “Retailers hold trade meetings on Mondays to review sale items. Unsold stock is often further reduced and sent out to stores by Monday evening, making Tuesday a prime day for shoppers seeking the best deals.”
Meanwhile, the ongoing conflict between Iran and the US has prompted the National Farmers' Union (NFU) to warn of potential price rises. While some costs may be absorbed by farmers and businesses, the NFU cautions that higher expenses will inevitably reach consumers.
Given the UK’s heavy reliance on imported produce and its “just in time” supply chain system, even minor disruptions can quickly trigger shortages and lead to price spikes, further emphasizing the importance of timing and savvy shopping.