July 20, 2005 — -- All of us want to save money when we shop, but for most of us, it's easier said than done. The key may be to find out which kind of shopper you are and identify savings strategies that work with your shopping habits.
According to research done by the coupon industry, there are five types of shoppers.
About 32 percent of shoppers are traditionalists. Your motto: "When it comes to shopping, I'm a pro." You are a disciplined purchase planner, who compiles detailed lists with your favorite coupons and spends an average of 140 minutes in a grocery store each week carefully weighing each purchase decision.
About 23 percent of shoppers are strivers. Your motto: "I wish I could be a better shopper."
About 16 percent of shoppers. Your motto: "I really need to save but it's such a hassle."
Both the striver and stresser are impulse shoppers, who have hectic schedules and limited time. Their shopping excursions are disorganized and stressful, occurring with little regularity and complicated by numerous unplanned trips to the store. You want to save, but aren't organized enough to know where to begin.
About 21 percent of shoppers. Your motto: "Shopping is a chore I could live without."
About 7 percent of shoppers. Your motto: "I don't mind paying more if it means zeroeffort."
Both the anti-shopper and the casual spender are not interested in changing how they shop or how much they save.
Do you see yourself in any of these descriptions? Keep reading to learn how to save no matter how you shop!
Traditionalists
Stressers and Strivers
These shoppers can make a big difference in their grocery spending by making a few simple changes that can save money and reduce stress.
Then Refer to the "Best Deals" list for your state on the Savings Mom site -- it does the work of finding the best coupon deals at your favorite stores. If you like the deal, just cut out the one coupon you need for that item. Even if you only use the system once a month, you'll be able to save money as long as you have saved each week's coupon circular.
The Anti-Shopper and The Casual Spender
