Millions of shoppers assume they can simply return unwanted or faulty items to the supermarket for a refund. However, refund policies vary significantly between Britain's biggest grocery chains, particularly regarding receipts, time limits, and change-of-mind returns. Here is what the major supermarkets say about their refund policies in 2026.
Tesco
Tesco generally asks customers to provide proof of purchase when returning items for a refund or exchange. However, shoppers who used a Clubcard may be able to have transactions traced for up to 30 days, allowing refunds even if the original receipt has been lost. For most store purchases, Tesco advises customers to return items with proof of purchase and, where possible, to the store where they were bought. Refunds or exchanges are usually available depending on the item and condition.
Sainsbury's
Sainsbury's allows customers to return most non-food items within 30 days, provided they are in their original condition and accompanied by proof of purchase. The retailer will generally offer either a refund or an exchange. The supermarket's "TRY Promise" also allows customers to claim a refund on certain own-brand products if they are not satisfied, provided they do so within 30 days. Some items cannot be returned unless faulty, including certain chilled, frozen, and sealed products.
Aldi
Aldi operates one of the more generous return policies among UK supermarkets. Customers can usually return non-food purchases within 60 days if they change their mind or if an item develops a fault. A receipt is normally required for a refund. The discount chain is also known for its "Twice as Nice Guarantee" on many of its own-brand food products, which can entitle shoppers to both a refund and a replacement if they are unhappy with the quality.
Asda
Asda's policy varies depending on the product category. Most George clothing items and general merchandise can typically be returned within 30 days with proof of purchase, while faulty goods are covered by consumer rights legislation. Customers are generally advised to keep receipts, as refunds without proof of purchase can be more difficult to process.
Morrisons
Morrisons allows customers to return many non-food items if they are unused, in a saleable condition, and accompanied by proof of purchase. The supermarket also offers refunds on faulty goods in line with consumer protection laws. Time limits vary by product category, so customers are advised to check the individual terms before making a return.
Lidl
Lidl says customers who are unhappy with a product should return it to a store with proof of purchase. Refunds are generally available for faulty products and many non-food items returned within the applicable returns period. The retailer's well-known "Lidl Love It Guarantee" also allows refunds on many of its own-brand food products if customers are dissatisfied.
Waitrose
Waitrose operates a customer satisfaction-focused returns policy and generally accepts returns of unwanted items with proof of purchase. The supermarket says customers who are unhappy with the quality of products purchased in-store should contact customer services or visit a branch for a refund or replacement. Time limits and conditions may vary depending on the item.
In summary, shoppers should always keep receipts and check individual store policies, as refund rules differ widely. Whether you are returning a faulty item or simply changed your mind, knowing these policies can help avoid disappointment.
