In an era of rising food prices and household budget constraints, savvy shoppers are turning to Tesco’s yellow sticker discounts to cut down on grocery bills.
These special markdowns, applied to items nearing their best before or use by dates, offer significant savings and help reduce food waste.
What Are Tesco Yellow Stickers?
Yellow sticker discounts at Tesco indicate price reductions on perishable items such as fresh produce, dairy, bakery goods, and ready meals.
The initiative allows the retailer to clear stock that might otherwise go to waste, while customers benefit from significantly lower prices. Depending on the timing, discounts can range from 10% to as much as 90% off.
When to Find the Best Deals
Timing is everything for those hoping to bag the best bargains. Tesco employees apply markdowns at different times throughout the day, with final reductions usually happening in the evening. Here’s a general guide:
- Morning (6 AM – 8 AM) – First wave of discounts, typically 10-30% off.
- Afternoon (2 PM – 4 PM) – More items are reduced, often reaching 30-50% off.
- Evening (6 PM – 9 PM) – Heavy markdowns begin, with discounts of up to 75%.
- Late Night (after 8 PM) – The final clearance phase, where prices can drop by 90% or more.
What Shoppers Say
Frequent bargain hunters say that being in the right place at the right time is key. “I’ve saved over £100 per month just by shopping for yellow sticker items,” says Jane Carter, a regular Tesco shopper in Manchester. “I often find high-quality meats and fresh fruit at a fraction of the cost.”
Many customers have also taken to social media to share their best finds, with some scoring whole meals for under £1.
Reducing Food Waste While Saving Money
Tesco’s yellow sticker system aligns with wider efforts to reduce food waste. By selling short-dated products at lower prices, the supermarket prevents edible food from being discarded. Tesco has also partnered with food banks and charities to distribute surplus food to those in need.
Top Tips for Finding the Best Yellow Sticker Deals
- Visit regularly – Each store follows slightly different markdown schedules.
- Be polite to staff – Some employees may give hints on the best times to check for deals.
- Look beyond the obvious – Fresh meats, cheeses, and premium bakery items often receive heavy discounts.
- Check use-by dates carefully – Some items need to be used immediately, while others can be frozen for later use.
For budget-conscious shoppers, Tesco’s yellow sticker deals present a win-win opportunity—lower grocery bills and a chance to help the environment by cutting down on food waste.
Whether you’re looking to save a few pounds or simply enjoy a bargain, these discounts are worth keeping an eye out for on your next shopping trip.
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