With inflation affecting every store nowadays, consumers are starting to turn to brands that provide more value for money. This is because store brands and rising alternatives seem to combine accessibility, quality and affordability, things that shoppers are in need of right now. Here are 19 brands that cost-aware consumers are switching to during today’s price spikes.
1. Walmart
Walmart is winning over a large number of shoppers with its affordable prices. The classic Great Value line remains a go-to when it comes to groceries and cleaning products, while the most recent Bettergoods label has succeeded in providing premium-style options at quite competitive prices. Actually, since its launch, 16% of U.S. households have expressed their preference, showing that private labels could potentially replace national brands.
2. Target
Target’s in-house brand Good & Gather has exceeded $3 billion in annual sales as more and more consumers are switching to it in search of a wide range of products at lower prices. The newer Dealworthy line, which focuses on budget-conscious essentials, is also growing in popularity. Both brands allow shoppers to easily ignore more expensive options and turn to the affordable but consistent products they offer.
3. Costco
One of smart shoppers’ favorite brands seems to be Costco’s Kirkland Signature. When it comes to products like batteries, peanut butter or wine, Kirkland offers the same or even higher level of quality at significantly lower prices. That’s why many consumers often opt for it by default.
4. Kroger
Kroger follows a private label strategy that offers customers three brands to choose from, each one for different tastes and needs. Smart Way provides mostly value basics, Simple Truth is a staple for natural and organic shoppers, and Private Selection addresses those who seek a more gourmet shopping experience. These brands currently make up more than 30% of Kroger’s sales, which is a positive sign that consumers are supporting this approach.
5. Aldi
Aldi has become one of the top choices for inflation-conscious families. Its simple yet good-quality store-brand goods have won over shoppers who are aiming to trade down from big-name brands. The minimalist packaging of the products, along with the significant savings, are also key factors of Aldi’s upcoming popularity.
6. Lidl
Lidl offers a more European experience when it comes to value and efficiency. With private-labeled products that seem to often surpass their well-known brand counterparts, it’s a classic choice for consumers who are seeking budget-friendly items that still feel high quality.
7. Dollarama
Dollarama’s B Pure brand in Canada is gaining more and more popularity for its personal care and beauty products. From makeup wipes to body wash, these affordable items are often seen as dupes for more expensive brands. This makes them perfect for shoppers who are trying to cut costs without losing their routine products.
8. Dollar Tree
As the equivalent of Dollarama in the U.S. with its own B Pure brand as well, Dollar Tree is becoming a go-to among beauty product enthusiasts. With impressive packaging and low prices, these products are also starting to replace drugstore brands in many households.
9. No Name
The classic Canadian brand has rebranded its simple design into a symbol of practicality and functional spending, and has thus seen shoppers coming back to it during price hikes. Better placement and occasional price freezes have affected the yellow-label products in a positive way and made them a solid alternative to established-brand prices.
10. Duke’s Mayonnaise
In the sauces aisle, Duke’s is starting to earn loyalty from consumers as it’s seen as a tastier and often cheaper choice than Hellmann’s. Having been a regional favourite in the past, it’s now spreading nationwide thanks to its vibrant flavor and growing quality reputation.
11. Mike’s Amazing
Another rising star in the condiment section is Mike’s Amazing, which offers low-cost sauces and dressings that have gained attention in grocery stores across the country. Shoppers who are more sensitive to prices and have a big household are opting for Mike’s instead of brand names that are more expensive.
12. CeraVe
Despite being a branded product, CeraVe provides dermatologist-recommended skincare at reasonable prices, and that’s why it has become a favorite when it comes to affordability. With top-tier skincare brands becoming more and more pricey, CeraVe has changed the game for many consumers.
13. Ricola
When it comes to cough drops and throat care, it seems that many shoppers are replacing Halls with Ricola. Its herbal-based formula, along with its consistent pricing even during inflation, has helped Ricola build a steady fan base.
14. Hemani
Known for its wellness products, such as teas and natural oils, Hemani is picking up steam among consumers who are looking for more affordable alternatives to holistic brands. Households that are more health-conscious have expressed a stronger liking.
15. Hanes and Dickies
With prices increasing as we go, many shoppers are returning to some classic apparel brands that respect value. Hanes with high quality undergarments and Dickies with durable workwear are examples of such brands, as they can offer basics that are both long-lasting and reasonable in price.
16. Friskies
For pet owners, established brands like Friskies are the ones to turn to for budget-friendly pet food. That’s right, inflation has hit pet care as well so boutique pet food labels are out of the question. What matters most to shoppers right now is value and affordability.
17. Equate
Often replicating the packaging and formulas of big-name brands, Walmart’s Equate line provides a wide range of pharmacy and personal care products, from ibuprofen to shampoo. This way, it’s helping families reduce medical costs considerably.
18. Mark Cuban Cost Plus Drug Company
Also in the healthcare sector, the Mark Cuban Cost Plus Drug Company is changing the way shoppers buy prescription medications. With open and honest pricing and significant discounts, it’s becoming a staple for people who have trouble affording the traditional pharmacy price hikes.
19. Trader Joe’s
Trader Joe’s has created a quite devoted customer base with its impressive lineup of store-labeled beers and wines. By offering high-quality taste at low prices, it attracts many consumers who opt for tasty beverages that don’t exceed their budget.