RVA Deals

Is it really more expensive to shop at Ukrop’s instead of Kroger? Everyone in Richmond has an opinion, including me. I’ve seen the topic surface numerous times in the comments on this column, and following last week’s topic, now’s as good a time as any to tackle the only truly controversial topic in Richmond grocery shopping.

July 29, 2009; 12:00 PM • by Alison Brown

Is it really more expensive to shop at Ukrop’s instead of Kroger?

Everyone in Richmond has an opinion, including me. I’ve seen the topic surface numerous times in the comments on this column, and following last week’s topic, now’s as good a time as any to tackle the only truly controversial topic in Richmond grocery shopping.

From my experience comparing sale ads for the past several months, I’d argue that Ukrop’s is pricier overall. Yes, I can always find a few “top-pick-worthy” deals from Ukrop’s each week. But because I only include one deal in each category, what doesn’t come across in the column is how many MORE good bargains I usually see in Kroger’s weekly ad. Often there are second and third runner-up values from Kroger that Ukrop’s just doesn’t offer.

The exception to my case is fruit and veggies. Generally, the two stores are pretty evenly matched in their fresh offerings, perhaps with a slight advantage to Ukrop’s. Meat also tends to be something of a toss-up.

Where I see the biggest difference is on packaged food prices. I look at Ukrop’s sale prices on snacks, frozen meals, desserts, etc. and think “Kroger had that on sale for a lot less last week. Or this week.” Additionally, Kroger offers double coupons every day, most of which are for packaged foods and make good deals even better.

(All that being said, Ukrop’s happens to be running a pretty decent “10 for $10” sale this week)

So that’s my two cents from a sales ad perspective. How about you, loyal shoppers? What do you think?

Meat Top Pick

Tyson boneless skinless chicken breasts are $1.79/lb at Kroger. There have been several $1 off coupons in recent Sunday papers to make it an even better deal. But I’m also partial to New York Strip Steaks for $6.98/lb at Ukrop’s.

Veggie Top Pick

At Ukrop’s, Virginia-grown green bell peppers are $.78 each.

Fruit Top Pick

A quart of grape tomatoes, my favorite non-junk food ever, is $2.50 at Kroger. And yes, I’m counting them as fruit (grapes!) Additionally, my local Kroger had cherries for $.99/lb, but it’s not an advertised price and might be specific to the store.

Dairy Top Pick

Kroger Grade A eggs cost $1.29 for an 18-ct carton.

Staples Top Pick

Pillsbury refrigerated dough products are $1 at Ukrops. On Thursday, Kroger will have Kellogg’s products on sale for 50% off.

Snacks & Sweets Top Pick

In the Kroger deli/bakery, angel food cakes are on sale for $2.50.

Beverage Top Pick

It’s only $1 for 64-oz. White House Apple Juice from Ukrop’s.

Household Top Pick

Kroger is running a promotion for $4 off when you buy 4 participating P&G products. After discount, Cascade gelpacs are $2.99, Puffs tissues are $.69, Old Spice Deodorant is $1.33 and so on. Even better, stack with coupons from the July 5 P&G coupon insert, or load e-coupons onto your Kroger card at the P&G eSaver website.

Find more deals by accessing the stores’ weekly ads online:

• Prices valid 7/27-8/3: Kroger, Ukrop’s, Target, Walgreen’s, CVS
• Prices valid 7/29-8/5: Tom Leonard’s, Whole Foods, Fresh Market

Check out more of Alison’s stellar cost-cutting tricks and tips over at Richmond Bargains or follow her on Twitter. Your wallet is sure to thank you.

July 29, 2009 12:00 PM 7