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Have Aldi Lost the Crown as the UK’s Cheapest Supermarket?
Vicky Parry
15th Sep 2025
As the cost of living continues to bite in 2025, finding the cheapest place to shop has never been more important. Whether you’re feeding a family, budgeting solo, or simply tired of paying over the odds, we’ve broken down the most affordable supermarkets across the UK—including online prices, household staples, and lesser-known discount havens like B&M and Farmfoods.
Let’s dive into where you’ll get the most for your money.
Aldi: The Undisputed Champion of Cheap
If you’re looking for value across the board, Aldi has reclaimed its crown. While Lidl managed to snatch the champion title away last month, Aldi is back on top once again! Compared to the most expensive supermarket on the list (Waitrose), customers will save a whopping £44.62 on the same shop.
According to the Which? August report, a supermarket sweep of 75 items would cost shoppers £127.92, while Lidl would cost £128.30. There’s not even a quid’s difference, so keep an eye out to see if Lidl catches up again next month…
Lidl: Still a Close Contender
The Lidl Plus app only saved shoppers 5 pence on the August shopping report (£128.30 instead of £128.35) – but that doesn’t take into account the huge savings and freebies that Lidl Plus customers can get. While Aldi doesn’t have a loyalty scheme, the Lidl Plus app gives unique discounts, freebies and coupons, and includes partners such as a free 90-day Tastecard or free Days Out With The Kids pass.
Lidl also excels in seasonal deals and its Middle of Lidl specials, where you’ll find random delights from lawnmowers to luxury coffee machines at a steal.
️ Big Four Bargains: Asda, Tesco, Sainsbury’s & Morrisons
While the big names can’t always beat Aldi on price, they still compete fiercely, especially with loyalty schemes.
Asda: Best for Bigger Shops
When you need to pantry stock, Asda still comes out on top. In the Which? comparison for a 190-item shop, Asda was cheapest of the rest of the supermarkets. (Aldi and Lidl aren’t compared in the bigger shop because there are fewer like-for-like items to compare).
- Best value for 190 items: £474.86
- Strong on promotions like “Rollback” (over 4,000 products recently cut by 25%)
- Asda Rewards App: Has returned £400 million to users through loyalty cashpots
Tesco: Clubcard Still Counts
- 190-item basket: £485.89 with Clubcard, but £514.90 without
- A good all-rounder, especially if you’re brand-loyal and bulk-buying
Sainsbury’s & Morrisons
Both sit around £20 more expensive than Aldi and Lidl for standard baskets, but Nectar and More Card discounts can occasionally bring prices down, especially on premium own-brand ranges.
Why Shopping Around Matters: A Word from MoneyMagpie
“Shopping around is no longer a luxury—it’s a survival tactic. The difference between one shop and another can be tens of pounds a week, and that adds up fast. With prices shifting constantly and loyalty schemes only working in your favour if you’re savvy, it really pays to keep your eyes open and mix up where you shop. Don’t get brand loyal: get budget loyal.”
— Vicky Parry, Editor at MoneyMagpie
Let that be your mantra for the year ahead. Adapting your shop weekly—depending on deals, discounts, and household needs—can make a real impact.
️ Discount Kings: B&M, Farmfoods & Local Markets
Sometimes the biggest savings aren’t in supermarkets at all…
B&M Bargains
Great for cleaning products, snacks, pet food, and household essentials:
- Fairy 100-wash pods: £19.99 (cheaper than Amazon or supermarkets)
- Big-brand chocolate bars (850g) as low as £1
Best tip? Shop early midweek—stock rotates fast.
Farmfoods: Frozen Food Fan Favourite
- Strong bulk deals on frozen meats, veggies, and ready meals
- Watch for paper voucher leaflets for extra discounts
- Loyal shoppers swear by their value on cleaning and toiletry bundles
Local Markets: Fresh & Flexible
Don’t forget your local high street:
- Fresh produce is often cheaper, especially after 3pm when traders slash prices
- Great for seasonal fruit, bakery items, and loose goods with zero packaging waste.
Online vs In-Store: Watch the Hidden Costs
Shopping online can be convenient—but it’s not always cheaper. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Delivery charges: Can add £3–£6 per order
- Minimum spend: Often £40–£50 to qualify
- Limited Aldi/Lidl options: These discounters don’t offer full online shops—though Aldi does deliver non-food items.
Always compare your final basket with tools like Trolley.co.uk or use supermarket price comparison apps.
Smart Shopping Tips for 2025
Here’s how to stretch your pounds even further:
| Tip | Why it works |
|---|---|
| Mix & Match | Buy staples at Aldi, get brand deals at B&M |
| Shop off-peak | Best discounts happen weekday mornings or close to store closing |
| Use store apps | Loyalty savings + personalised offers |
| Bulk buy wisely | Look for multi-buy deals you’ll actually use |
| Don’t ignore markets | Flexible prices and zero waste options |
Final Word: What’s the Cheapest Supermarket in the UK?
- For weekly shops? Aldi wins on value, simplicity, and consistency.
- For large shops and cashback? Asda edges ahead with its Rewards App (but Aldi and Lidl could still be cheap)
- For top-ups and household basics? B&M and Farmfoods offer unbeatable deals.
- For fresh fruit and veg? Check your local market, especially just before it closes.
By combining supermarket loyalty perks, discount store deals, and some good old-fashioned market shopping, you can make 2025 the year you finally tame your grocery bill.
Love Aldi
YOU ARE REALLY RIGHT!
BECAUSE I IN THAT ACTUAL MOMENT HAVE THE HABIT TO BUY ONLY THE REALLY NECESSARY THINGS!
KIND REGARDS,
TEODORA
17.6.2025
SOFIA