The fierce battle for Britain's grocery budget has a surprising new winner. Consumer champion Which? has crunched the numbers and dethroned the long-reigning discount king, announcing a new cheapest supermarket in the UK for April 2024.
The latest monthly analysis compared the cost of a popular grocery shop, consisting of 72 items, across both physical stores and online retailers. In a stunning upset, Lidl has narrowly pipped its rival Aldi to the post, claiming the title of the UK's most affordable supermarket.
The Numbers Behind the Victory
Which? found that the identical basket of goods cost shoppers an average of £127.23 at Lidl for the month of April. This was a mere 74 pence cheaper than at Aldi, where the same shop came to £127.97. While the margin is slim, it marks a significant shift in the competitive landscape.
The traditional 'big four' supermarkets trailed significantly behind the discount giants. Asda was the cheapest among them, with a basket total of £135.81. It was followed by:
- Tesco: £138.03
- Sainsbury's: £139.90
- Morrisons: £141.38
At the premium end of the scale, an online shop at Ocado would have set you back £151.49, while Waitrose was the most expensive at £155.31 for the same items.
A Different Story for a Bigger Shop
However, the story changes when looking at a larger trolley shop of 139 items. In this broader comparison, which includes more branded products, Aldi reclaimed its position at the top.
The larger shop cost £297.31 at Aldi, compared to £300.78 at Lidl. Asda was again the cheapest of the larger chains at £321.75, proving its 'Just Essentials' range is a strong contender for families doing a big weekly shop.
What Does This Mean for Shoppers?
Ele Clark, Which? Retail Editor, emphasised the importance of this competition for consumers: "With food prices continuing to squeeze household budgets, many people will be looking for ways to save money on their groceries. Our research shows that switching to a discount supermarket like Lidl or Aldi could make a significant difference to your wallet."
She also advised that for those who can't switch entirely, "comparing the price of individual products at your local supermarket can still help you save money, as our analysis found that no single retailer was the cheapest on every product."
The takeaway is clear: the title of cheapest supermarket is fiercely contested. For the smallest, most focused shop, Lidl is currently your best bet. But for a larger, more comprehensive weekly haul, Aldi still holds the crown, making it essential for cost-conscious consumers to shop smart.
