Stores want to make money, and they do so by making you spend more than what you planned for. When you step into a store and end up leaving with an overloaded cart, it’s because store marketers have used creative ways to make you spend more. In this blog post, we have shared some of the tricks used by stores to make you spend more than your budget. If you want to shop smarter, keep reading.
How Stores Trick You Into Spending More Money
Marketing plays an important role in influencing your purchase decisions. Top-tier stores like Walmart and Tesco have consumer behavior experts who come up with creative ideas to make you spend more. Once you read the tactics to making you spend more, you will subconsciously avoid them.
1. Bulk Buying
One of the oldest tricks stores use to make you spend more is the “buy bulk” offer. When you see 10 yogurts for $10, you are inclined to buy more. You consider it a better deal. Most shoppers buy bulk, even if they don’t need it to save money. However, you should always compare prices per unit. Plus, look at competitor brands in the store as well.
2. Large-Sized Shopping Carts
Shopping carts are getting bigger, and it’s not because people are shopping more. Instead, it’s because you can spend more money. With a half-empty shopping cart, you are tricked into believing you haven’t spent up to your budget. Always compare the price of every item with your budget, and don’t overspend just because your cart isn’t as full as others.
3. Candies Near Checkout
If you have seen a pack of Trident bubble gum near the check-out, you should know it’s there for a reason. Most people tend to buy inexpensive products when the cashier doesn’t have change; This triggers a purchase, and you buy more than what your change would cover.
4. “Buy One, Get One”
The best way to make you spend more is the buy-one-get-one-free offer. Finance expert John Dulin says you pay the full price of one item and get one for free which creates waste. Try looking for other options and see if you can get a better discount. Sometimes, when a brand launches a buy-one-get-one-free offer, its competitors reduce the price of their products to increase competition. You can use this to your advantage and save more money.
Ending Note
Megastores offer mega deals but don’t be fooled by these tricks. Most times, these mega deals are meant for you to spend more. So, always shop according to your budget and needs. Over shopping can be expensive, and the additional items you bought might go to waste. Be responsible, and make grocery shopping affordable.