Store Brands vs Name Brands: How to Get More for Less

When you’re walking down the grocery store aisle, the choices can be overwhelming. On one hand, you see name-brand products, with their vibrant packaging and prominent commercials. On the other hand, there are store-brand items, which are often more affordable but less familiar. Choosing store brands can be a wise way to cut costs without sacrificing quality.

Private label products are produced by third-party companies, under the store’s brand. Often, these products are very similar to their name-brand counterparts. The main difference? Private label options don’t include expensive marketing campaigns that national brands build into the price.

Many people assume that store brands are not as good, but blind taste tests have shown that customers frequently can’t tell the difference generic brands and popular brands. Especially when it comes to common household items like canned goods, the quality is practically identical.

For over-the-counter medications, the core ingredients are monitored and must comply with the same safety rules, so whether you’re buying name-brand pain relievers or store-brand versions, you’re getting the same thing at a fraction of the cost.

In additional areas like toiletries, it may seem a bit risky to switch to generics, but it’s often worth it. In case a product doesn’t meet your standards, the savings will compensate over time. Many retailers even offer money-back guarantees on their private-label items, eliminating here the risk to try.

The important thing is that you can start small. Swap out a few staples initially—such as baking ingredients, cleaning supplies, or snacks. Over time, you may be surprised how much you’ve saved. By being open to private labels, you can make a big difference in your grocery bill without feeling like you’re sacrificing quality.