A father from Aldershot, Hampshire, has revealed how he uses 'deal stacking' across multiple apps to obtain breakfast and groceries for free, and even make a small profit. Al Baker, 51, combined promotions from various apps to pick up items from Greggs and Sainsbury's without spending any money.
Mr Baker used a £5 Sainsbury's gift card, obtained through a promotion on his First Direct banking app, to buy items including eggs and grapes. He then visited Greggs, where he claimed a free coffee via Octopus Energy and a free bacon and sausage baguette through O2 Priority. His total out-of-pocket expense was just 5p.
By scanning his receipt on the Clear! app, he earned 10p back, resulting in a net profit of 5p. Mr Baker said: 'Over the course of the year, it adds up to huge amounts. I’m the type of person that pinches pennies – if I can save money, I will.'
He emphasised the importance of regularly checking apps that many people already have but rarely use. 'Banking apps, energy apps, phone provider apps – there are freebies and discounts sitting there every day, but lots of people never look,' he explained. He also uses cashback platforms such as TopCashback and Quidco, as well as the JamDoughnut app, to earn money back on everyday spending.
Beyond food, Mr Baker says the apps offer discounts on days out, including Vue cinema tickets and National Trust entry at reduced prices. He believes the strategy has made a real difference during hard times, adding: 'It can be the difference between actually being able to do something and not.'
