Let Them Do Your Shopping

Are you an impulse shopper? Do you always end up buying things that you never intended to buy when you left home? If so, here are some suggestions to get your shopping trips back on track – and keep your money in your wallet.

Here’s the tip of the day:

There are some basic rules of thumb for grocery shopping:

1) Always have a shopping list.
2) Establish a budget.
3) Take inventory. What food items do you need?
4) Bring your coupons.
5) Never go to the grocery store when you’re hungry.
6) Compare prices. Read the unit price, which is the cost per pound, to compare different products.
7) Look at the “expiration” and “use by” date labels for the freshest products.
8) Be smart. Don’t get into marketing strategies, such as “middle shelf” items, island displays or recipe related item placement.
9) Allow adequate time so you won’t have to return to the store.
10) Pay attention in the checkout line. Make sure you watch the scanner and get the correct prices for your merchandise.

Source: About.com

Do you still need help shopping?

If you still can’t conquer the grocery store, a North Augusta-based company will do your shopping for you. CJs Groceries 2 Go is designed “to help busy clients avoid the hassles of grocery shopping, including long lines, traffic and impulse buying.”

Co-owners James Edmonds and Chris Cloy, who are both 21-year-old entrepreneurs, started the company in July. CJs Groceries 2 Go accepts grocery orders over the phone or through their Web site at cjs2go.com.

How does it work? The customer places an order and payment is due upon delivery. CJs Groceries 2 Go accepts cash or credit cards. The business shops at the following stores: Kroger, Bi-Lo, Food Lion, Publix, Fresh Market, Earth Fare and Wal-Mart.

For less than 15 items, delivery prices are $15 for North Augusta and $20 for Augusta and surrounding areas. For more than 15 items, delivery prices are $30 for North Augusta and $35 for Augusta and surrounding areas.

For more information, contact Chris Cloy at (803) 624-2244 or James Edmonds at (803) 624-2243 or e-mail Groceries@CJs2go.com.

How do you stay on target at the grocery store or other shopping trips? Write in to The Pinch to share with fellow shoppers.