As the countdown to Christmas Day intensifies, a leading supermarket expert has pinpointed the precise dates and times to undertake your festive food shop for a hassle-free experience.
The Prime Dates for Your Festive Shop
Richard Price, a specialist from BritSuperstore, has shared crucial advice for navigating the seasonal supermarket rush. He emphasises that Thursday, December 18 and Friday, December 19 are among the very best days to visit the shops for your Christmas dinner essentials.
"Timing is the secret weapon that separates experienced shoppers from overwhelmed novices," Price told the Express. "Choosing the right day and time can make all the difference."
On these dates, stores are expected to be well-stocked, allowing shoppers to secure everything they need before the final weekend frenzy. For non-perishable items or goods suitable for freezing, Price advises an even earlier trip on Monday, December 15.
When to Avoid and Top Time-Saving Tips
The expert strongly cautions against last-minute dashes. "Saturday shoppers mean long queues and less stock, while Christmas Eve brings a madcap last-minute rush," he warned. "The 23rd might be a little quieter, but not by much. You’re better off going shopping the week before than risking it in the final hour."
For perishable items like the Christmas turkey, the advice is to shop on the 18th or 19th, but with a clever storage solution. "On Monday the 15th, you can stock up on essentials with plenty of time to spare. Pop your turkey and other perishables in the freezer, and you'll be laughing all the way to the big day," Price suggested.
The Golden Hour for Shopping
Beyond the date, the time of day is equally critical. Richard Price recommends visiting either early in the morning or late at night for the smootest experience.
"The shelves are freshly stocked and the crowds haven’t rolled in yet, so you’ll have first dibs on everything," he explained. "Later in the day is also perfect for picking up marked-down items to pop in the freezer." He also shared a pro tip: "Grab a few extra loaves for Boxing Day sandwiches."
The cornerstone of a successful shop, according to Price, is simple preparation. "A well-organised list makes navigating the store easier and prevents impulse purchases," he stated. His final advice is to plan ahead to stay within budget, delegate tasks among family members, and crucially, never shop on an empty stomach.
