As grocery prices continue to rise, many South Africans are looking for ways to stretch every rand. In 2025, the need for affordable essentials is more pressing than ever. Fortunately, there are still places where you can shop smart and save. This where to buy the cheapest groceries in SA guide breaks down the best supermarkets, bulk suppliers, and shopping strategies to help families and individuals manage their food budget effectively.
Whether you’re shopping in Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban, or rural towns, these insights are based on current 2025 prices and in-store promotions already active in May.
Cheapest Supermarkets in South Africa (Ranked by Price)
Based on recent market data and consumer reviews, here’s a ranking of affordable supermarkets south africa offering the best grocery deals in 2025:
| Supermarket | Known For | Average Basket Cost (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Boxer | Staple foods, bulk savings | R620 |
| Shoprite | Low prices on essentials | R645 |
| Checkers | Deals on fresh produce & dairy | R670 |
| Pick n Pay | Loyalty discounts, household combos | R710 |
| Food Lover’s Market | Fresh produce & bakery specials | R725 |
| Woolworths | Quality, but higher pricing | R850 |
Boxer remains the top pick for low-income households, while Shoprite offers consistent value across urban and township areas. If you’re focused on grocery prices south africa 2025, these stores are leading in affordability.
Best Places for Bulk and Monthly Grocery Shopping
When shopping for a large family or stocking up for the month, buying in bulk can save you significantly. Here are the top spots:
Makro: Ideal for canned goods, meat packs, and cleaning supplies. Membership may be required, but savings are high.
Game Stores: Excellent for dry goods, tinned foods, and kitchen essentials.
Boxer Bulk Deals: Every month, Boxer releases combo packs with rice, maize, oil, and sugar at fixed low rates.
Shoprite Xtra Savings: Offers “buy more, pay less” bundles weekly via app or card promotions.
These options are ideal for shoppers looking for budget shopping south africa strategies and real-time discounts.
Items to Buy Cheap at Specific Stores
Every store has a category where they shine. Here’s what to buy and where:
| Grocery Item | Best Store to Buy From | 2025 Price Trends |
|---|---|---|
| Maize Meal (10kg) | Boxer | From R65–R75 |
| Cooking Oil (2L) | Shoprite / Makro | From R68–R80 |
| Chicken (per kg) | Checkers | From R42–R48 |
| Fresh Veggies | Food Lover’s Market | Market-day specials under R10/kg |
| Long-Life Milk (6-pack) | Pick n Pay / Boxer | Combo deals from R72 |
The cheap food stores 2025 approach is all about knowing which items are cheaper where, and when.
Tips to Save More on Groceries in 2025
Besides choosing the right store, here are tried-and-tested savings tips South Africans are using right now:
Use store loyalty cards: Shoprite Xtra Savings, PnP Smart Shopper, and Checkers Sixty60 offer real-time discounts
Buy in bulk during monthly specials or promotions (especially on cooking oil, sugar, and maize)
Compare prices online before visiting physical stores using apps like PriceCheck or store websites
Switch to generic brands or no-name products, which are often 15–30% cheaper
Visit markets late in the day for discounted fresh produce
Freeze perishables to avoid mid-week trips and spoilage
Avoid convenience stores like garage shops and spaza shops for major purchases—they charge more per unit
These tips are already helping households reduce their monthly grocery bill by R300 to R600, especially when combined with store promotions.
Online Grocery Deals in South Africa (2025)
More South Africans are switching to online grocery shopping due to convenience and digital discounts. Here’s where you can save:
Checkers Sixty60 App – Offers same-day delivery and personalized discounts
Takealot Fresh – Fresh produce and meat packs in select metros
Pick n Pay ASAP! – Daily deals and online-only bundles
Makro Online – Free delivery for bulk orders above R500
Online shoppers often receive 10–15% extra discounts, especially if paying via store-linked credit cards or digital wallets.
FAQs
Where can I find the cheapest groceries in South Africa in 2025?
Stores like Boxer, Shoprite, and Checkers are the top picks for the cheapest groceries, especially for basics like rice, maize, and oil.
Which store is best for monthly grocery shopping?
Makro and Boxer are ideal for bulk buys and household combos, helping families shop smart under the budget shopping south africa approach.
Are loyalty cards worth it?
Yes. Programs like Xtra Savings, Smart Shopper, and Checkers ClubCard offer instant discounts and cashback.
What’s the average monthly grocery bill for a family?
In 2025, an average family of 4 in South Africa spends between R3,500–R5,200 monthly, depending on store choice and location.
Can I save by shopping online?
Absolutely. Online stores offer promo codes, app discounts, and bundle deals, especially during weekends and public holidays.