Top 10 Cheapest Supermarkets In The UK

Stretching your student budget starts with smart choices, especially when it comes to groceries. The supermarket you pick can have a real impact on your weekly spending, thanks to loyalty schemes, student discounts, and exclusive deals. With online shopping making it easier than ever to compare prices and access international options like Indian grocery stores, knowing where to shop is key. 

In this guide, we’ll explore the top 10 cheapest supermarkets in the UK that help students save money without sacrificing quality or convenience.

Overview of Budget-Friendly Supermarkets in the UK

Key Highlights:

• Co-op is one of the few with a permanent, straightforward 10% student discount.
• Tesco and Sainsbury’s offer loyalty points and regular student deals through apps and partner platforms.
• Iceland stands out for free delivery and frozen food value.
• Aldi and Lidl are best for ultra-low prices and unique weekly deals.
• Online Indian Grocery stores help international students save on familiar staples and bulk orders.

Also read: Explore The Top 10 Biggest UK Shopping Centres

Top 10 Budget-Friendly UK Supermarkets

1. Aldi

Aldi is known for its discount model, focusing on a limited range of mostly own-brand products, streamlined store layouts, and minimal staffing. This no-frills approach keeps operational costs low and savings high for shoppers.

While Aldi is the UK’s cheapest supermarket in 2025, it currently does not offer home delivery or click-and-collect services in the UK; therefore, all shopping is conducted in-store only.

• Cost-benefit for students: Consistently low prices on essentials and weekly “Specialbuys” make Aldi ideal for budget-conscious students shopping in-store.

2. Lidl

Lidl operates a similar discount strategy to Aldi, offering a wide range of own-brand products and efficient store operations. Lidl’s stores are known for their fresh bakery sections and themed international food weeks. The Lidl Plus app provides access to exclusive discounts and digital receipts, enabling shoppers to save even more.

• Rewards & loyalty schemes: Lidl Plus app
• Cost-benefit for students: Low prices, fresh bakery items, and app-exclusive deals make Lidl a strong choice for affordable shopping.

3. Asda

Asda is a traditional supermarket with large stores and a wide selection of own-brand and branded products. It’s known for frequent “Rollback” promotions and a user-friendly online shopping platform. Asda offers flexible delivery slots and a rewards app for cashback and exclusive deals.

• Delivery costs: From £2.95 (standard); up to £8.50 for peak times
• Minimum spend: £40
• Delivery pass: From £3.50/month (midweek) or £6.95/month (anytime)
• First order deal: £20 off a £50 spend (check for current offers)
• Rewards & loyalty schemes: Asda Rewards app
• Cost-benefit for students: Value pricing, a wide product range, and online convenience make Asda a practical option for students, especially for bulk shopping.

4. Tesco

Tesco is the UK’s largest supermarket chain, offering a vast selection of products and an extensive store network. The Clubcard loyalty scheme enables shoppers to collect points and access exclusive discounts, while delivery-saver passes can help regular online shoppers save even more.

• Delivery costs: £3–£7 per delivery
• Minimum spend: £50
• Delivery pass: From £4.99/month (off-peak) or £7.99/month (anytime)
• First order deal: Check the site for current offers
• Rewards & loyalty schemes: Clubcard points and discounts
• Cost benefit for students: Clubcard savings, meal deals, and a diverse product range (including international foods) make Tesco convenient and rewarding.

5. Sainsbury’s

Sainsbury’s is well-regarded for balancing quality and price, with a strong focus on higher-quality own-brand products. The Nectar loyalty card enables shoppers to earn points on their purchases, which can be redeemed for vouchers or discounts. Sainsbury’s Local stores are especially convenient for quick trips.

• Delivery costs: Typically £1–£7
• Minimum spend: £40
• Delivery pass: Available, from £4/month
• First order deal: Check site for current offers
• Rewards & loyalty schemes: Nectar card (points and discounts)
• Cost-benefit for students: Nectar points, occasional student discounts, and convenient store locations make Sainsbury’s a good option for those who value quality.

6. Morrisons

Morrisons is known for its fresh food counters, affordable ready meals, and competitive pricing. The More card loyalty scheme offers discounts and personalised offers, and bulk-buy deals help keep costs down for regular shoppers.

• Delivery costs: £2.99–£6.99 per delivery
• Minimum spend: £40
• Delivery pass: Available, from £5/month
• First order deal: Check the site for current offers
• Rewards & loyalty schemes: More card
• Cost-benefit for students: Affordable fresh produce, ready meals, and loyalty discounts make Morrisons practical for meal planning on a budget.

7. Iceland

Iceland specialises in frozen foods and offers a straightforward online platform. Free next-day delivery is available on orders over £40, making it easy to stock up on frozen essentials and reduce food waste.

• Delivery costs: Free for orders over £40; £4 for smaller baskets
• Minimum spend: £25–£40 (varies by offer)
• First order deal: Check site for current offers
• Rewards & loyalty schemes: Bonus Card
• Cost-benefit for students: Affordable frozen meals and snacks, plus free delivery on bulk orders, help students save money and shop less frequently.

8. Co-op

Co-op stores are smaller and often located in city centres or near campuses, prioritising convenience and accessibility. The Co-op membership scheme gives shoppers money back on purchases, rewarding frequent visits.

• Delivery costs: Varies by location; some stores offer local delivery
• Minimum spend: Varies
• First order deal: Check site for current offers
• Rewards & loyalty schemes: Co-op Membership (cashback on purchases)
• Cost-benefit for students: Late opening hours, campus proximity, and cashback rewards make Co-op ideal for last-minute or small-shop needs.

9. Waitrose

Waitrose is known for premium quality, excellent customer service, and a wide range of prepared meals and specialty foods. The MyWaitrose card offers perks like free hot drinks and exclusive deals, but prices are higher compared to other supermarkets.

• Delivery costs: Start at £3
• Minimum spend: £40
• Rewards & loyalty schemes: MyWaitrose card; student discount available
• Cost-benefit for students: Best for occasional treats or high-quality ingredients; loyalty perks add value, but overall costs remain higher.

Online Indian Grocery Stores In The UK: Affordable Essentials for Students

For Indian students in the UK or anyone who loves authentic Indian cuisine, online Indian grocery stores such as Spices of India, Patel Brothers, and others are a game-changer. These platforms specialise in delivering a vast range of Indian staples, snacks, and spices right to your door, making it easy to maintain familiar eating habits and cook comfort food away from home.

Why Shop at Online Indian Grocery Stores?

• Access to Authentic Ingredients:
  Find everything from basmati rice, lentils, and atta (flour) to hard-to-source spices, snacks, and ready meals that aren’t always available at mainstream UK supermarkets.
• Bulk Buying Options:
  Many online stores offer larger pack sizes and value bundles, letting you stock up on essentials like rice, dal, and spices at a lower per-unit cost—ideal for meal prepping or sharing with flatmates.
• Competitive Pricing:
  Prices are often lower than those found in physical specialty stores, especially when buying in bulk or during promotional periods.
• Convenience:
  Shop from the comfort of your accommodation and get groceries delivered to your doorstep, saving time and effort, particularly helpful during busy exam periods or for students living far from city centres.

Tips for Saving Money on Groceries

• Use Loyalty Cards: Supermarket loyalty cards, such as Tesco Clubcard, Sainsbury’s Nectar, Morrisons More, and Lidl Plus, can earn you points, discounts, cashback, and even free gifts or exclusive offers. Simply scan your card or app at checkout. Don’t overspend just for points; focus on genuine savings.
  
• Shop Online: Online grocery shopping lets you compare prices across supermarkets in the UK and access exclusive online deals. This is especially helpful for online Indian grocery stores in the UK, as you can bulk buy and often get free delivery on larger orders.
  
• Buy Own-Brand: Supermarket own-brand products are typically much cheaper than branded alternatives, with little difference in quality. This swap can significantly reduce your weekly shopping costs.
  
• Look for Student Discounts: Many supermarkets and retailers offer student-specific deals if you sign up with a student email or show a valid student ID. Cards like TOTUM (NUS Extra) and ISIC, as well as apps like UNiDAYS, unlock additional discounts on food, shopping, and travel.
  
• Batch Cook: Buying ingredients in bulk and cooking large portions to freeze or share with flatmates saves both time and money. Planning meals in advance also helps reduce food waste and unnecessary spending.
  
• Utilise Cashback and Bonus Schemes: Some supermarkets, like Iceland, offer cashback on preloaded cards (e.g., 5% with the Bonus card), while others host bonus point events or provide extra rewards for app users.
  
• Stack Offers: Combine loyalty card savings with student discounts and online vouchers for maximum value. Always check for active promotions before making a purchase.
  
• Be Flexible and Plan Ahead: Shop late in the day for markdowns on fresh food, and plan your meals around what’s on offer that week to stretch your budget further.

Choosing the right supermarket can make a big difference to your student budget. Aldi and Lidl are the cheapest supermarkets in the UK, with Asda, Tesco, and Sainsbury’s also offering good value for money.

With the number of Indian students in the UK reaching record highs in recent years, access to familiar and affordable groceries has become increasingly important.

For international students, online Indian grocery stores in the UK offer a convenient and cost-effective way to find the ingredients needed for home-cooked meals, helping them maintain their culinary traditions and manage their budgets while studying abroad.

Maneuvering your student life in London doesn’t have to be a hassle. With stunning UniAcco student accommodation in the UK located close to the best and most affordable supermarkets, it’s the easiest way to look after your well-being and budget. Experience convenience and comfort all in one place.

Also read: Top Music Festivals In The UK For The Upcoming Season 2025

FAQs

1. Which is the cheapest supermarket in the UK for students?

Aldi is widely recognised as the cheapest supermarket in the UK, closely followed by Lidl, both offering consistently low prices and good value for money.

2. Are there loyalty schemes that help students save money?

Yes, most supermarkets in the UK offer loyalty schemes, such as Tesco Clubcard, Sainsbury’s Nectar, and Lidl Plus, which give discounts, points, or cashback on your shopping.

3. Can I easily find Indian groceries in the UK?

Yes, you can find Indian groceries at major supermarkets, but for a wider selection and bulk buys, online Indian grocery stores in the UK, like Spices of India and Patel Brothers, are highly convenient.

4. What should students look for when choosing a supermarket?

Students should consider price, location, availability of loyalty schemes, and whether the store stocks international foods or offers online shopping and delivery.

5. Do all supermarkets offer online shopping and delivery?

Most supermarkets like Tesco, Asda, and Sainsbury’s offer online shopping and delivery; smaller chains like Co-op and Lidl may have limited online options.