Jennifer sent a note asking if there is an easy way to compare prices across stores? I will share three ways that I do it, but I am sure there are more ways and we would LOVE to hear your ideas.

1. I started using a price book last fall. This way I can see if prices are moving up or down on certain items and also compare prices between stores.
2. I usually make my shopping list the evening the store flyers come out. I look at the list of what I need and then I look through the fliers for those items, plus products I buy all the time, like eggs, apples, carrots, yogurt, etc. As I look at each store ad, I jot down what I would buy if I went to that store. When I get done, I pick the one that has the best buys for me that week. (I only go to one store/week unless there is a really good deal at two stores.) This also helps me learn which stores are best for me.
3. Although this method takes the most time, it will give you the clearest answer to which store is best for you. Make a list of the 10-15 items you frequently buy and go to the different stores and write down the prices. Then add up the list costs and see the price difference over the whole list.

We have priced many foods in the last year for several different projects in Ames, and we do find differences between the stores. If you have ideas how to compare between stores, please let us know.

-pointers by Peggy