Living in Switzerland means adjusting to higher prices—and supermarkets are no exception. But with smart strategies, planning, and insider knowledge, you can significantly reduce your grocery expenses without compromising quality. This article offers detailed, practical tips that both new arrivals and long-term residents can use to shop wisely and stretch their budget in Swiss stores.
Understand the Pricing Structure
Swiss supermarkets fall into three broad categories:
• Premium chains: Coop and Migros dominate, offering wide selections and high-quality products.
• Discount supermarkets: Aldi and Lidl provide lower prices, especially on weekly promo items and private-label goods.
• Specialty stores and organic markets: Like Bio-Company or Alnatura—higher price, niche selection.
If you’re new, start by shopping at Coop and Migros to familiarize yourself, then gradually explore Aldi and Lidl to save on staples.
Sign Up for Loyalty Programs and Weekly Promotions
Coop’s “Supercard” and Migros’ “Cumulus” card offer instant savings, coupons, and digital rebates. Register online or in-store to receive personalized discounts on items you buy regularly.
Check weekly catalogs for special offers—available at the checkout or online. If you spot essential items like pasta, rice, or toilet paper on sale, buy in bulk (while considering expiration dates).
Embrace Private Labels
Swiss supermarkets have great-quality private labels:
• Migros: “M-Budget” (basic), “M-Classic” (standard), “Alnatura** (organic)
• Coop: “Prix Garantie” (basic), “Naturaplan” (organic)
• Aldi and Lidl: Offer solid-value house brands
These products are often 30–50% cheaper than national brands and taste-wise, not far behind. Try the private labels for everyday needs like cereal, flour, cleaning supplies, and canned goods.
Use Distributor Brands Strategically
Distributor brand oils, dried fruits, and staples (like Migros’ Pural) are usually priced competitively. Compare weights and prices per 100 g or liter to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Don’t Overlook Discount Stores
Aldi and Lidl offer major savings on staples, fresh produce, and household goods. While product turnover is quick and stock limited, weekly promos can reduce your average item cost dramatically.
Fast tip: Shop Wednesday morning, when fresh items and new deals arrive.
Watch Out for “Take‑it-or-Leave‑it” Shelves
Supermarkets often have discount tables or shelves – leftover bakery goods, near-expiry items, or repackaged produce. In Coop and Migros you can find:
• Bread and pastries at 30–50% off
• Expiry-bound yogurts or cheeses at lower prices
Tip: Check these before regular aisles—they’re often a great deal.
Buy Seasonal and Local Produce
Imported fruits and vegetables can be costly. Swiss-grown produce is fresher, tastier, and more budget-friendly. Look for seasonal items:
• Summer: strawberries, zucchini, lettuce
• Autumn: pumpkins, apples, mushrooms
• Winter: potatoes, cabbage, root vegetables
Farmers markets are also excellent for deals—go just before closing time for discounts.
Plan Your Meals—and Your Shopping
Meal planning avoids impulse buys and food waste. Set aside Sunday evening to plan dinners, breakfasts, and lunches for the week. Use weekly catalogs to incorporate sale items into your menu.
Become comfortable with cooking staples like beans, pasta, soups, and stews—bulk cooking saves time and money, and leftovers can be frozen.
Learn the Unit Price Trick
Swiss price labels show cost per 100 g or liter—you’ll often find that larger pack sizes deliver better value. Calculate items as you compare, and remember:
• Packaged meat, cheese, or cereals often cost less per kilo than small portions
• Buying family-sized packages can save money, especially if divided and frozen
Use Discounted Bulk Clubs (Coop and Migros)
Both chains offer bulk sales clubs:
• Coop “Mega Saver” and Migros “SmartSaver” promotions
• These offer 30–50% off on large packs of pasta, canned goods, oils, and more
Watch the flyers and your loyalty app to spot these deals.
Shop Cross-Border If Possible
If you’re near the French, German, or Italian border, consider cross-border shopping. Household staples like coffee, pasta, and cleaning products are often 20–40% cheaper in neighboring countries.
Be aware of Swiss customs allowances—usually CHF 300 worth of goods per visit, per person. Stay within the limit to avoid duties.
Mind Your Bakery and Butcher Selections
Bakery goods are especially expensive. Buy bread at Bäckerei ohne Grossgebühr stores, or get discounted end-of-day bread from supermarket bakeries.
For meat, whole chickens or larger packs offer better value than cut portions. Use discounts, split packs, and roast or freeze portions at home.
Save on Beverages
Soft drinks, wine, beer, and water add up quickly:
• Most rent out recyclable glass bottles — return them for a rebate
• To save, buy water in PET bottles, larger formats, or even get a carbonator (like SodaStream)
• Coffee capsules are expensive—buy beans or ground coffee on sale or use a French press
Use Flyers and Websites Efficiently
Modern shoppers can benefit from digital tools:
• comparis.ch and Toppreise.ch compare supermarket prices
• Coop and Migros apps show digital coupons and track promo history
• Follow #foodwaste or discount hunter pages in Switzerland on Instagram or Facebook for community tips
Reduce Plastic and Packaging Costs
Many Swiss stores now offer bulk/loose goods:
• Bring reusable containers to buy lentils, rice, nuts, and grains by weight
• Refill cleaning products at “Refill-Station” counters
This is not only cheaper per kilo but also sustainable.
Shop Every Two Weeks, Not Every Day
Frequent shopping leads to impulse purchases. Do one major shop every two weeks, plus a smaller top-up. This helps manage time, budget, and fridge space.
Stock up on non-perishables during promo weeks and plan to eat fresh items earlier in the week.
Stick to a Grocery Budget
Decide on a weekly or monthly grocery budget (e.g., CHF 80–120 per person) and track it. Budget apps or a simple spreadsheet help monitor spending and identify areas for savings.
When your budget is nearly spent, rely on pantry items and discounted foods until the next cycle.
Shop with Friends or Shared Households
If you’re part of a flat-share or community, consider shared bulk purchases. Splitting 5 kg rice, 10 liter oil, or 3 kg flour packs can lower per-person cost. Make sure you coordinate storage and use-by dates.
Final Thoughts
Swiss groceries are no bargain—but with intention, planning, and a few insider strategies, you can shop smartly and save significantly. Whether you’re a newcomer or a long-term resident, adapting these tips will help your money go further and boost your confidence in everyday life.
Sticking to a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing quality. Instead, you learn to shop cleverly—and that’s a skill that pays off inside and outside the supermarket.