Estimated reading time: 20 minutes
Discover the customer-friendly return policies of Canadian grocery stores. Get the details on returning products and ensure satisfaction.
Canadian grocery stores that offer a return policy do so because they value their customers.
If you purchase a product at a major Canadian grocery store and it’s not what you expected, return it.
Almost every grocery store website I’ve visited has a return policy that should meet customers’ expectations across Canada.
Considering that most consumers won’t return food to a grocery store, it’s time to think twice about your money’s worth.
Today, you’ll find as many grocery store return policies as I could see below, with a link to their website.
If you find one I’ve missed or has changed, please send me a message to update.
Does Your Grocery Store Have A Return Policy?
A return policy is a BIG check for YES when customers can quickly locate and review such a policy on any grocery store website and in-store.
The problem is sometimes it’s challenging to find the FAQs or the return policy so consumers understand what they can and cannot return.
Unfortunately, this can get frustrating for customers who are too shy to return something or have to hunt for information and don’t want to call or visit customer service.
The name of the game for grocery stores in Canada must be simple.
To keep things simple for my readers, I did the work for you, as you will find a return policy below for most major grocery stores in Canada.
Call The Store If You Need Clarity On A Return Policy
Call the store if you are unsure about a return policy or whether you can return an item.
There may be time limits for a return and other stipulations, but for the most part, they are great with food items, especially if you hand them on to your receipt.
One tip I suggest is storing receipts in a budget binder or receipt folder, so they are always handy when you need them.
You may need to return something the next week or month, so always keep your receipts handy.
Related: Why you should always ask for a receipt
Returning food or products of many descriptions vary from grocery to grocery store.
However, many that fall under the same umbrella, such as the Loblaw chain of stores, keep the same return policy.
Return Policies In Other Countries
When I first moved to Canada, there was NO WAY I would return anything to a store as it’s not common practice in the U.K., at least when I lived there.
Mrs. CBB had to push me to go and do it, although she explained the process, and I just did it.
Although it was a learning experience from shop to shop, I’ve never had an issue returning food to any grocery store in Ontario, Canada.
Every grocery store I’ve returned food to has been happy to return items without hesitation.
Bring your bananas back to the grocery store if they taste awful or refuse to ripen.
Grocery stores want customer feedback, so they know they need to make improvements to the manufacturers and growers.
Calling companies directly with legitimate complaints about their products is an excellent way to help their quality control.
Just to let them know, some companies send discount coupons, but only if they offer them.
I received a blog comment from a gentleman named Paul, who lives in Ontario and has a dilemma with his wife about returning to the grocery store.
Returning Food To The Grocery Store
Hi Mr.CBB,
I was conversing with my wife about some products we purchased at a Canadian grocery store that weren’t the best, and we only noticed when we got home.
When we opened the lettuce package, it was slimy and non-edible. My wife says she won’t return the lettuce as it was our fault for not looking closely.
She also thinks they will turn her away because fresh produce can go off quickly. I said I would return it, and she laughed, thinking I wouldn’t get anywhere.
Can consumers return produce and other products to a grocery store, whether open or not?
I haven’t looked into it, but I thought you might have the answers since you are the Grocery King in Canada.
Thanks,
Paul G.
Ontario, Canada
Related: Why you always need to say Yes To Your Grocery Receipt
My Response To Paul
Hi Paul,
As mentioned above, all grocery stores in Canada have different return policies depending on the mother store and where they are located in Canada.
Notice below that I’ve looked up as many return policies I could find for grocery stores in Ontario so you can compare them with your wife.
I hope you find what you are looking for, and thanks for sending in a question.
P.S. You shouldn’t have any issues with produce, especially with your receipt.
I wrote a great post about returning food to the grocery store successfully.
Mr.CBB
Grocery Store Return Policies in Canada
Below is an exclusive list; however, I may have missed some shops.
Please let me know of any missed shops, errors, or updated policies I need to change.
Zehrs Return Policy
Returns with Original Receipt: Merchandise may be returned for exchange or refund within 14 days of purchase with original tags and packaging. Exchange only after 14 days.
Some exceptions apply.
Returns without Original Receipt: Exchange may be offered for a product in its original package, depending on the product’s condition and date of purchase.
Photo identification may be required.
Home, Electronics, and Leisure: All sales are final after 30 days. Software, VHSs’, CDs, and video games are only refunded in an original sealed package, with an exchange for the same item offered if the product is opened and defective.
The Try It You’ll Love It Guarantee™: If you are not completely satisfied with the quality of any President’s Choice® food or no name® food products, Teddy’s Choice® or Exact® products, return it along with the receipt or original package and exchange or refund.
All sales are final on Gift cards, phone cards, special event tickets, books, newspapers, magazines, pierced earrings, hats, underwear, opened sheets or pillows, prescription drugs, tobacco, lottery, seasonal event merchandise, and clearance items.
Read more here at Zehrs/Loblaws Return Policy.
Farmboy Refund Policy
Farm Boy guarantees the freshness, taste and quality of the products we sell.
If for any reason you are not satisfied with an item you purchase at one of our stores, you can return it to the store for a complete refund or exchange.
A proof of purchase is required. If you have any questions regarding our refund policy please contact us.
Super C Return Policy
√ ALWAYS FRESH
If you are not satisfied with the freshness of a product purchased at Super C, we will reimburse you the price of the product and we will provide you with a discount coupon in an amount equal to 10% of the price paid for the product (before applicable taxes) valid up to 14 days from the date of issuance and applicable to purchases totaling at minimum the value of the coupon.
Product must be returned to the same store unconsumed upon presentation of the invoice within 7 days of purchase, unless the product has a shorter lifespan, as may be indicated on the packaging, in which case, it must be returned before the expiry of such shorter lifespan.
Not applicable on prescriptions and other pharmacy products, Hot BBQ Chicken, alcohol, tobacco and lottery tickets, products that have a minimum retail price governed by law (including: milk, bread), and products damaged after purchase.
Because of the variable nature of determining factors affecting the freshness of a product and its conservation state since its purchase, we reserve the right to determine cases where the freshness guarantee shall not apply.
We may suspend, modify or withdraw this program at any time without prior notice.
Coupon is not transferable and has no cash value. No photocopies accepted.
Limit of one use per coupon.
Always In Stock Policy
√ ALWAYS IN STOCK
Super C offers an in-stock guarantee for all items of its current flyer.
If you do not find any such item in our store at any time during the current week of our flyer, Super C will provide you with a rain check coupon.
The rain check coupon allows you to purchase, within 14 days of issuance of the rain check coupon, that item at the previously advertised price and receive an additional 10% discount on that item.
Limit: one rain check coupon per household per item per weekly flyer.
Not applicable on prescriptions and other pharmacy products, Hot BBQ Chicken, products that have a minimum retail price governed by law (including: milk, bread, etc), alcohol, tobacco and lottery tickets, products that are out-of-stock due to force majeure events outside of our control or any other products for which the quantities are designated as limited in our flyer.
We may suspend, modify or withdraw this program at any time without prior notice.
Limit of one rain check coupon per household per item per weekly flyer.
Rain check coupon is not transferable and has no cash value. No photocopies accepted.
Limit of one use per rain check coupon.
Read more here Super C Return Policy
Walmart Return Policy
If I buy something from Walmart, can I return it?
What about children’s clothing and groceries? Can I return those products as well?
Absolutely! We want you to love what you bought, so we offer the following satisfaction guarantees for children’s clothing, exclusive brands to Walmart Canada, as well as produce, meat, and seafood with the following conditions:
- Children’s Clothing & Footwear (excluding Accessories):
- Children’s Clothing, Sizes 0-16
- Children’s Footwear, Pre-walk Toddler, Sizes 0-10
- Children’s Footwear, Boys Youth, Sizes 1-6 & 11-13
- Children’s Footwear, Girls Youth, Sizes 1-4 & 11-13
It can be exchanged if worn out before the child outgrows the item. If an identical item is unavailable in an identical size, Walmart will substitute a similar item of equal size and price.
- Produce, Bakery, Deli, Meat & Seafood
No Time Limit. Please note that online refund requests are only available three days after delivery for Online Grocery Delivery orders.
- Exclusive Walmart Brands
There is no time limit except for ONN / Black Web merchandise, which has a 1-year guarantee from the date of purchase on receipt, and EverStart batteries, which have a variable guarantee period as indicated on the battery itself.
Valid proof of purchase must accompany the product in all cases.
Read the full Walmart Grocery Return Policy.
Food Basics Return Policy
Food Basics is ALWAYS FRESH (OR YOUR MONEY BACK!)
If you’re not satisfied with the freshness of your purchase, we will refund your money.
That’s a promise.
Metro Grocery Return Policy
What is the online grocery return and refund policy?
If a product does not meet your expectations, we invite you to use our online refund tool, available directly in your account’s purchase history.
Such a tool will allow you to choose the products you want a refund, select the reason for the refund, and submit your request.
Please note that only one online refund request is allowed per order, and you must submit the request within seven days of receiving your order.
You can read more FAQs from Metro Grocery Store Canada here.
No Frills Return Policy
Returns with Original Receipt: Merchandise may be returned for exchange or refund within 14 days of purchase with original tags and packaging.
Exchange only after 14 days. Some exceptions apply.
Returns without Original Receipt: Exchange may be offered for product in its original package, depending on condition of product and date of purchase. Photo identification may be required.
Home, Electronics and Leisure: All sales are final after 30 days. Software, VHS’, CD’s and video games are only refunded when in original sealed package, with exchange for same item being offered if the product is opened and defective.
The Try It You’ll Love It Guarantee™: If you are not completely satisfied with the quality of any President’s Choice® food or no name® food products, Teddy’s Choice® or Exact® products, simply return it along with receipt or original package for and exchange or refund.
All sales are final on: Gift cards, phone cards, special event tickets, books, newspapers, magazines, pierced earrings, hats, underwear, opened packages of sheets or pillows, prescription drugs, tobacco, lottery, seasonal event merchandise and clearance items.
Costco Return Policy
What is Costco’s return policy?
On Membership: We will refund your membership fee in full if you are dissatisfied.
On Merchandise: We guarantee your satisfaction with every product we sell and will refund your purchase price, with the following exceptions:
- Electronics: Costco will accept returns within 90 days from the date of purchase for televisions, major appliances*, projectors, computers, cellular phones**, cameras***, camcorders, digital music players, tablets, smart watches, security camera systems and other electronic products identified by Costco from time to time.
- Diamonds: When returning items containing a 1.00 ct diamond or larger, Costco warehouses will require additional time to verify the diamond, in which case a refund will be approved upon positive verification.
- This process will require approximately 2 to 5 business days.
- Cigarettes and alcohol: Costco does not accept returns on cigarettes or alcohol where prohibited by law.
- Products with a limited useful life expectancy, such as tires and batteries, may be sold with a product-specific limited warranty.
- Custom Installation Services: Custom products ordered or installed according to our members’ personal and unique specifications cannot be returned or refunded, except for warranty repair/ replacement due to failure to meet specifications and otherwise to the extent required by law.
Costco may in the future restrict its return policy regarding these and other products. Restrictions will be shown at the point of purchase.
Price Chopper Return Policy
What is your product return policy?
Price Chopper will refund a non-perishable product within 14 days of purchase when accompanied by a receipt and the product.
If the purpose of your return relates to the quality of a national brand item, we suggest you contact the company that manufactured the product directly.
Manufacturers are the experts on their products and welcome customer feedback.
Foodland Return Policy
What is your product return policy?
The full value of a non-perishable product will be refunded within 14 days of purchase when accompanied by a receipt and the product.
If the purpose of your return relates to the quality of a national brand item, we suggest you contact the company that manufactured the product directly.
Manufacturers are the experts on their own products and welcome customer feedback.
Giant Tiger Return Policy
Return Policy
Satisfaction guaranteed or your money cheerfully refunded with presentation of sales receipt – no time limit.
Please note all tobacco, lottery, undergarments and gift cards are final sales.
Returns may be made at any of our store locations or directly to our online warehouse.
Please see the detailed steps for each option below.
For online purchases your refund will include the paid price (price minus discounts) of the item, shipping costs, plus any applicable sales tax.
You can expect a refund in the same form of payment originally used for purchase within 7 to 10 days of your returned product being received at our warehouse.
For items returned directly in-store, your refund will be processed immediately.
Store Returns
Most items purchased online are available to be returned at any Giant Tiger location.
Please call our customer service team at 1-877-919-6949 to confirm that an in-store return is possible.
If you choose to return your online purchase to a local Giant Tiger location, you must present your confirmation email (your official receipt), or the packing slip that came with the shipped item(s).
If these are not available, you may be offered a merchandise credit for the item if the store can confirm it is a Giant Tiger product.
Please note in these instances that Photo ID is required.
Items purchased at Giant Tiger stores may not be returned to our online warehouse.
Items returned directly to online warehouse
If you wish to return an item you purchased online directly to the warehouse, please call our customer service team at 1-877-919-6949 and they will provide all the helpful information required to complete your return.
When shipping a return, you must include the original or copy of the packing list.
Be sure to save copies for your records.
Giant Tiger FAQs
Shoppers Drug Mart Return Policy
Shoppers Drug Mart Return With A Receipt
- Within 30 days from original date of purchase
- Refunds will be provided in the same tender that the purchase was paid in:
- Cash will be refunded in cash.
- Debit card will be refunded to the original debit card.
- Credit card will be refunded to the original credit card.
- Gift Cards will be returned on a gift card.
- Cheques if cleared after 10 days will be refunded in cash.
- Have your PC Optimum Card® readily available if the Card was used in original purchase.
- Customer will be required to fill out a Refund Voucher to verify the return was completed.
- Shoppers Home Health Care stores may issue a cheque for refunds over $100.
- The personal information provided on a Refund Voucher is required in order to process the refund and is used for the following purposes:
- For auditing purposes
- To ensure customer satisfaction
- A Shoppers Drug Mart representative may contact you to confirm your customer service expectations were met.
Without Receipt
- Returns not accompanied by a receipt will be processed at our discretion at the last lowest sale price for store credit.
- For Shoppers Home Health Care stores, in some cases the customer will be charged 25% re-stocking fee.
For more info, Shoppers Drug Mart Returns
Sobeys Return Policy
Q: What is your product return policy?
A: Sobeys has a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Promising 100% satisfaction and “no excuses,” the guarantee ensures money back or a free replacement on any item that left a customer unsatisfied for any reason.
Compliments/Signal: If ever one of our products does not meet your expectations, please feel free to return it to the store on your next visit.
Your purchase will gladly be replaced or refunded, and your comments, with complete product information, will be forwarded to the Compliments Customer Care Team.
Read more about Sobey’s Return policy
Real Canadian Superstore Return Policy
Returns with Original Receipt: Merchandise may be returned for exchange or refund within 14 days of purchase with original tags and packaging.
Exchange only after 14 days. Some exceptions apply.
Returns without Original Receipt: Exchange may be offered for product in its original package, depending on condition of product and date of purchase.
Photo identification may be required. Home, Electronics and Leisure: All sales are final after 30 days. Software, VHS’, CD’s and video games are only refunded when in original sealed package, with exchange for same item being offered if the product is opened and defective.
The Try It You’ll Love It Guarantee™:
If you are not completely satisfied with the quality of any President’s Choice® food or no name® food products, Teddy’s Choice® or Exact® products, simply return it along with receipt or original package for and exchange or refund.
All sales are final on: Gift cards, phone cards, special event tickets, books, newspapers, magazines, pierced earrings, hats, underwear, opened packages of sheets or pillows, prescription drugs, tobacco, lottery, seasonal event merchandise and clearance items.
More FAQ’s Real Canadian Superstore
Your Independent Grocer Return Policy
Returns with Original Receipt:
Merchandise may be returned for exchange or refund within 14 days of purchase with original tags and packaging.
Exchange only after 14 days.
Some exceptions apply.
Returns without Original Receipt:
Exchange may be offered for product in its original package, depending on condition of product and date of purchase.
Photo identification may be required.
Home, Electronics and Leisure: All sales are final after 30 days. Software, VHS’, CD’s and video games are only refunded when in original sealed package, with exchange for same item being offered if the product is opened and defective.
The Try It You’ll Love It Guarantee™:
If you are not completely satisfied with the quality of any President’s Choice® food or no name® food products, Teddy’s Choice® or Exact® products, simply return it along with receipt or original package for and exchange or refund.
All sales are final on: Gift cards, phone cards, special event tickets, books, newspapers, magazines, pierced earrings, hats, underwear, opened packages of sheets or pillows, prescription drugs, tobacco, lottery, seasonal event merchandise and clearance items.
Save On Foods Return Policy
What is our Produce Promise
It’s our quality guarantee, we are passionate about the quality of our produce. We are committed to ensuring that you have a great experience and enjoy each and every piece of produce you get from us. We want to ensure that you receive: Top quality product The best in-store shopping experience Exceptional overall value
How Does it Work?
If you’re not 100% satisfied with your produce purchase, we will:
1. Reimburse your money for the item
2. Replace the produce item you purchased
3. Reward you with 500 More Rewards Points
Read the full details of the Save On Foods Produce Promise.
Our Freshness Guaranteed Produce Promise will be granted once per transaction for purchases within 14 days of the original purchase date.
It applies to all fresh items in our Produce department, both packaged and non-packaged. Customer must provide original receipt along with More Rewards card.
If you are not 100% satisfied with the freshness of your produce, we will refund the value of the item you purchased, replace the produce with an item of your liking from our fresh or package produce productions up to the value paid for the produce item you are replacing and reward you with 500 More Rewards points will be issued.
What is the Save on Foods online shopping return policy?
We offer a 100% Money Back Guarantee on any item you are not satisfied with if returned within 14 days of purchase. (some restrictions apply)
You can either contact our customer service team at 1-800-242-9229 to be provided a refund or bring the product into your local store where a team member will gladly refund the item you no longer want or are not satisfied with.
Safeway Return Policy
Compliments 100% Money Back Guarantee
Every product is backed by our 100% guarantee. Just bring the product back to the store with proof of purchase for a full refund.* Learn more at Compliments.ca!
*100% Guarantee means that if you buy an eligible Compliments product, use the product as intended, and the product does not meet your expectations, you can return the product with a receipt within 14 days of purchase and we will refund the purchase price.
This guarantee does not apply to gift cards, ‘spend x get x’ items and/or ‘free’ promotions and discounts. We reserve the right to, in our discretion, make changes to this guarantee program without prior notice, which right includes the right to withdraw this guarantee from any customer who we determine to be abusing the guarantee.
The guarantee is only available at retail banners operated by Sobeys Capital Incorporated.
Safeway.ca website
Longo’s Return Policy
What is your refund policy?
We’re sure you’ll love everything you buy at Longo’s.If you’re not completely satisfied with your purchase, simply return the item with your receipt to receive a full refund or exchange.
Refunds will not be offered on products being returned without a receipt.
We will gladly offer you an exchange of equal or lesser value.
More FAQ Longo’s
Fortinos Return Policy
Returns with Original Receipt: Merchandise may be returned for exchange or refund within 14 days of purchase with original tags and packaging. Exchange only after 14 days.
Some exceptions apply. Returns without Original Receipt: Exchange may be offered for a product in its original package, depending on the product’s condition and date of purchase.
Photo identification may be required.
Home, Electronics and Leisure:
All sales are final after 30 days. Software, VHS’, CDs, and video games are only refunded in an original sealed package, with an exchange for the same item being offered if the product is opened and defective.
The Try It You’ll Love It Guarantee™:
If you are not completely satisfied with the quality of any President’s Choice® food or no name® food products, Teddy’s Choice® or Exact® products, return them along with a receipt or original package for an exchange or refund.
All sales are final on Gift cards, phone cards, special event tickets, books, newspapers, magazines, pierced earrings, hats, underwear, opened sheets or pillows, prescription drugs, tobacco, lottery, seasonal event merchandise, and clearance items.
Fortinos Return Policy Information
ShopRite Return Policy
At ShopRite, we want all customers to be satisfied with their purchases.
If for some reason you would like to return a product, you can bring it to the store with the original, paper or digital receipt for a full refund or exchange in accordance with the following guidelines:
Refund Policy Shoprite 2023-2024 Subject to change at any time
- Refunds are issued in the form in which payment was made at the time of purchase. If no paper or digital receipt is available, we will use your Price Plus® Club card to verify your purchase. If we are unable to verify purchase with a receipt or Price Plus Card, we may require a valid form of identification, and we will exchange the item or issue a store credit for the lowest sale price within the last 30 days.
- The value of the refund for returns with a receipt will be the price paid on date of purchase, adjusted to reflect any coupons or offers received.
- We accept returns of non-perishable items within 30 days and returns of perishable items within 7 days of purchase.
- Perishable product returns are subject to manager’s discretion, in accordance with our food safety policies and as allowable by law.
- All perishable food items returned to the store are discarded and cannot be resold.
- We will accept returns of products that do not meet quality standards, but cannot accept returns of perishable foods that are purchased in excess or in error (wrong variety, flavor, size, etc.). These returns are costly to the store and the consumer, and also add to the waste stream, impacting the environment.
- We encourage you to freeze such items for future use, or donate them to friends, family or local food banks, pantries or charities.
Appliances
- Appliances, electronics and other general merchandise may be returned to the store for a refund only if the product is provided in the original and unopened packaging.
Opened Items
- Opened items are subject to manufacturers’ warranties and should not be returned to the store. Manufacturers’ warranties may apply 30 days after the original purchase date.
Seasonal Items
- Seasonal/Holiday/Clearance product returns are subject to the store manager’s discretion. Items marked “reduced for clearance” or “final sale” are not returnable.
Baby Formula
- You must provide proof of purchase to return/exchange unopened baby formula (not purchased using WIC). Baby formula purchased using WIC cannot be returned due to USDA regulations, but if the product is damaged or defective, it can be exchanged for the same item.
We cannot issue refunds, credits or exchanges for the following:
- Products spoiled or damaged due to a power failure, improper storage or misuse.
- Gift cards, e-gift cards, telephone cards, reloadable debit cards, prepaid passes, tickets, money orders, greeting cards, books, newspapers, magazines or other periodicals, stamps, lottery tickets, beer, wine or other alcoholic beverages (unless allowed by state/ local regulation) or items prohibited by law.
- Refunds or exchanges for purchases made via electronic benefit transfer (EBT), WIC and SNAP (food stamps) are subject to state and federal guidelines.
- Other restrictions may apply.
Shoprite Online Return Policy
ShopRite Online Return Policy Info
FRESHNESS GUARANTEE
If you’ve shopped in our store, you know our commitment to freshness is as simple as our message, “Always Fresh. Always for Less.” We have that same commitment to our online clientele. We guarantee your satisfaction.
If you’re ever disappointed in any product you receive in your Online Shopping order, please get in touch with our Personal Shopper team at your ShopRite store.
Denninger’s Return Policy
REFUNDS, DAMAGES, CANCELLATIONS, CLAIMS & RETURNS
Refunds are not available: What is your return policy? What is your cancellation policy?
You may request to cancel your order for a full refund up to 48 hours before the requested delivery date.
Orders cancelled after that time will be non-refundable.
Please call 905-528-8468 Monday-Friday between 9-5 to cancel your order.
For more info, check out Denninger’s.
Freshco Return Policy
At FreshCo we are proud of the quality of the products that we carry, so much so that we have a Double Fresh Guarantee.
If you aren’t quite satisfied with an item, return it to the store with your receipt within 14 days, and not only will we refund your money, but we’ll replace the item.
Also, we suggest contacting the company that manufactured the product directly.
Manufacturers are the experts on their products and welcome customer feedback.
Co-op Return Policy
I didn’t find anything specific for a Co-op return policy.
Still, after reading the FAQ, they offer products of the highest quality, so I suggested making a phone call before returning anything to the store.
It sounds like they stand behind products sold at Co-op.
Everyone is welcome to shop at Co-op, and everyone is invited to become a member. There are no points to collect or miles to accumulate, just cash back to spend on whatever you like.
It’s simple – cash back!
We are a different kind of business – a business that shares our profits with our members.
A Co-op membership offers a lifetime of rewards including high- quality products and service at competitive prices.
We also offer the potential for annual cash-back and an equity account that grows over time, as well as the opportunity to get involved as a member-owner.
Read more about Coop Connection.
Ultimate Return Policy Guide Updates
There you have it, folks, a complete list of Canadian Grocery Store Return Policies.
However, if I’ve missed any, which I’m sure I did, I will add them as I go along.
Please leave me a message, and I’ll look into it.
Discussion: Do you have any tips for those wanting to return to any of the above grocery stores?
APRIL – Week #1 of 4- Apr 2-8, 2018
2018 GROCERY BUDGET / STOCKPILE BUDGET AND US RESERVE:
•Total Grocery Budgeted For Year: $190.00 x 12 = $2,280.00 for 2 adults
===========================================================================================
REMARKS FOR THE MONTH:
Before we start our APRIL shopping off though, I am going to make my usual monthly “reserve” transfers:
Grocery:
$ 190.00 for the month
($ 100.00) trf to re-stocking – normally $15.00
($ 5.00) trf to holiday reserve–normally 15.00
($ 5.00) trf to summer reserve–normally 15.00
($ 5.00) trf to US Reserve –normally $45.00
CANADIAN Grocery Balance $75.00
With Easter behind us, there are no big celebrations this month so I have pared down the grocery budget and increased our reserve savings a little.
REMARKS FOR THE WEEK:
This week’s shop is all about some treats for the hubby and I. I do love the large all white meat turkey breast from Meridian. It’s expensive but this is the best tasting turkey meat I have ever had and it’s grass fed and organic.
===========================================================================================
OUR “CANADIAN” SHOPPING:
Costco – Port Coquitlam –
1 Kirkland Probiotic Yogurt $7.99 < love these and they are great for lunches!
1 Bacon Bits $13.99
Total OOP: $21.98
—————————————————————–
RCSS – Pitt Meadows –
1 Romaine Lettuce $5.48 < I see turkey Caesar Salad in our future
1 McCains Grated Hash Browns $3.48 < made cheesy hash browns with salsa – oh yum!
Total OOP: $8.96
—————————————————————–
MERIDIAN FARM MARKET – Maple Ridge –
1 x 7 lb Turkey Breast, White Meat Only $47.55
Total Re-Stocking Reserve OOP: $47.55
===========================================================================================
OUR “US RESERVE” SHOPPING:
OUR NEXT USA SHOP WILL BE IN MAY
===========================================================================================
2018 Y-T-D GROCERY SAVINGS:
•Total Loyalty Card Price Reductions This Year: $128.94
•Total Coupons/Rain Checks Used This Year: $0.00
•Total Price Match Savings Used This Year: $0.00
•Total More Points Earned This Year: 88 Points
•Total Air Miles Earned This Year: 54 Air Miles
•Total PC Optimum Points Earned This Year: 0 Points
===========================================================================================
• SUMMARY OF FUNDS Y-T-D:
$ 760.00 Grocery Budget JAN-APRIL
($211.08) NET RESERVE TRANSFERS
($ 473.92) Actual CASH SPENT
$ 44.06 AVAILABLE Y-T-D GGC SPENDING NOT INCL RESERVES
• RESERVES Y-T-D:
$ 326.42 Freezer Re-Stocking Fund
$ 222.59 Holiday Season Fund + $260 PC Optimum Points ($220 Mary + $40 Larry) + $10 Dream Air Miles + $50 Save On Foods More Rewards ($25 Mary + $25 Larry)+ $50 Loblaws Card ($25 Mary + $25 Larry) = $587.59
$ 699.59 Summer Season Fund
$ 606.87 US Shopping Reserve
$ 88.80 GGC Savings Reserve
$ 0.00 Points Redeemed Reserve
OUR CURRENT TOTAL UNUSED RESERVES ARE $1,944.27. This means the 1,761.30 that we carried forward from 2017 PLUS AN ADDITIONAL $507.28 that we have added in 2018, LESS $324.31 that we have drawn out for use in 2018.
===========================================================================================
Week 14 – Mar 30 – Apr 5/18
Name Your Store: RCSS
Total Coupons Used: $
Total Points = 600
Total Out Of Pocket: $26.16
Human
3 Can Tuna – (600 PC Points) = $3.84
Box of Sweet Potato Wheat Thins Crackers = $2.98
890 g Hellman’s Mayo = $3.98
1.75 L Simply OJ – $2.99 (PM Frescho – $1.99) = $1.99
4 L 2% Milk = $4.28
Cut up Veggies = $4.96
Brandt X-Lean Kolbassa – $5.00 (PM Frescho – $3.49) = $3.49
Name Your Store: No Frills
Total Coupons Used: $
Total Points = 2,400
Total Out Of Pocket: $24.77
Human
4 Jars Classico Pasta Sauce – 1600 PC Points = $7.88
2 – 400 g Armstrong Marble Cheese – 800 PC Points = $7.54
Green Grapes – 0.790 kg = $1.53
4 Wonder WW Bread – $12.35 (50% Pink Sticker) = $6.15
Hot Cross Buns = $1.67
Cats
No Shop
Grocery Game Challenge Results
Total Grocery Budget for the 2 Adults ($1820.00)
Total Human (Adults) this Week Period: $50.93
Total Human (Adults) to Date: $596.49 (minus Debt pymt & Gift Cards) = $580.17
Total Grocery Budget for the 3 Cats ($390)
Total Cats this Week Period: $
Total Cats to Date: $221.41 (minus Debt pymt & Gift Cards) = $173.52
Total Grocery Budget for the Personal Hygiene ($390)
Total Personal Hygiene this Week Period: $
Total Personal Hygiene to Date: $98.00 (minus Debt pymt & Gift Cards) = $73.73
Total Coupons Used this Week Period: $
Total Coupons Used To Date: $2.25
Total Grocery Savings for this Week Period: $
Total Grocery Savings to Date: $41.32
Total Price Match for this Week Period: $2.52
Total Price Match to Date: $3.70
Total PC Points Received this Week Period: 3,000
Total PC Rewards Points Used this Week Period:
Total PC Rewards To Date: 74,918
Overview: Took advantage of some specials and PC Points
I returned some allergy medicine recently to Shoppers and they were totally fine with accepting it (it was unopened and I had the receipt). Reason for the return was I found it about $8 cheaper at No Frills so I bought another one hoping to return the one bought at Shoppers later. However I used 20000 PC Optimum Points to purchase it in the first place and was super confused about how the refund would go since the website said they will not return the points to me. They basically refunded the whole thing on my credit card. So don’t be afraid to return something even if you used PC Points to purchase it.
Week 1 April 2 – 8
March Monthly budget $240 ($60 per week)
March Costco budget $80 ($20 per week)
Total Spent Grocery this week: 51.65
Total Spent this month: $51.65
Total Spent Costco this week: $0
Total Spent Costco this month: $0
Grocery left to spend: $188.35
Costco left to spend: $80
Coupons used: $0
Coupons to date: $0
PC Optimum Redemption: $0
PC Optimum Redemption to date: $0
Checkout 51 Opening Balance: $136.80
Checkout 51 weekly offers redeemed: $0
Checkout 51 Current balance: $136.80
Checkout 51 Cheque Redemption: $0
Checkout 51 Cheque Redeemed to date: $0
Grocery carry over: $37.45
Costco carry over: $0
RCSS
Lindt Gold Bunny 3 x .94
Cadbury Mini Eggs 6 x .24
VH Teriyaki sauce 1.88
Catelli Lasagna noodles 2.68
Catelli Fettuccini noodles 2 x 1.00
NN Cottage Cheese 2.48
Milk 4.28
Minute Maid frozen OJ 6 x 1.00
Minute Maid frozen mango punch 4 x .60
Minute Maid frozen pink lemonade 4 x .60
NN Fries 3.49
Iceberg lettuce 2 x .97
Pears 1.73
Tomato HH on the vine 1.06
PC Bacon 3.98
Cross rib pot roast 4.07
Baguette 2 x .94
Garlic bread 2.00
Hamburger Buns 2.59
Tax .55
Total Paid 51.65
I bought clearance Easter chocolate, not a lot, but enough for the 3 of us. There was so much there, I could have gotten much more. We had planned to make lasagna, so some items were geared to a lasagna dinner (noodles, cottage cheese, lettuce and garlic bread), but we plan to eat for a couple of days on this. The cross rib roast is misleading, it was not a full roast, but a couple of small slices. I was looking for a fast fry steak for stir fry dinner, but nothing was affordable, this turned out to be the most cost effective option. It was ok, I did expect it to not be the most tender as I would normally cook something like this for hours. I could have done without the meat in it, the teriyaki sauce was lovely. It was a stock up week for the freezer fridge with the juices. We don’t go through a ridiculous amount of juice, but I do like to have it available for my son and his friends. So, finding a great deal always means stock up. The concentrate was the best price out there. I had juice on my list, so I found the best option available to me. The only price match item this week was the lettuce. It was the only lettuce I could PM in flyer, would have preferred romaine, but I made do. .94 compared to 2.49. The two head cost me less than the price Superstore was looking for just one. I have made a habit these days to add the milk into the grocery rounds rather than just running in for the milk. Price went up .01 a short time ago. It doesn’t sound like much, but really it affects this household .05 because we pay in cash. At $4.27 it would round down, now at 4.28 it rounds up. Annoying, but it affects the annual budget increasing 2.60 if we were to continue buying it on its own. Any increase I can avoid is a good thing. Costco is still at 4.25, it also means that whenever we do our monthly Costco trip, milk has been added to the list. We are still working on clearing out many things in the freezer and pantry, but we needed pasta to go along with the sauces we have on the shelf lol. We have a few different shapes, but no long noodles which we go through most. I likely should have picked up a couple more boxes, maybe next week.
APRIL 2-8
Yearly Budget for 1 Adult $2400 or $200/mo
Total Grocery Budget with any carry-overs $200
STORE: NO FRILLS
-2 Neoguri Instant Noodles (@0.77 each) $1.54
-Paldo Gomtang Noodles (pkg of 4) $3.77
-2 x PC Cremini Mushrooms (@1.27 each) $2.54
-1L Chocolate Milk $1.00
Gift Card Used $8.85
Total Out of Pocket $0
STORE: SAFEWAY
-Bananas (@0.79/lb) $0.90
-Lundberg Brown Rice $7.99
Total Out of Pocket $8.89
STORE: KINS FARM MARKET
-2 Mango (@1.69 each) $3.38
Total Out of Pocket $3.38
STORE: T&T
-2 Rosemary Lamb Rack (@6.88 each) $13.76
Total Out of Pocket $13.76
STORE: SUPERSTORE
-Sourdough Bread $2.48
PC Optimum Earned: 200
Gift Card Used $2.48
Total Out of Pocket $0
POINTS OVERVIEW
Total Gift Cards used to date: $36.33
Total Rewards used to date: $42.61
PC Optimum Points Balance: 1355
PC Optimum Points Redeemed: 0
Scanning Code of Practice (SCOP) to date $0
COUPON APPS
Checkout51- $6.95
GROCERY SHOP THIS WEEK
Total to spend this month : $200
Total coupons used this week: $0
Total coupons used to date: $0
Total in-store discounts this week: $0
Total in-store discounts to date: $0
Total spent this week: $26.03
Total spent so far this month: $26.03
Total over/Under spend this shop ($50/wk): Under $23.97
Total left to spend for the month: $173.97
Total Spent To Date 2018: Jan $217.46 + Feb $127.79 + Mar $124.18
WEEKLY OVERVIEW
New month, new budget! I’ve been on a roll lately, I hope it continues. Nothing really special this week to note other than using the Loblaw card to pay some of my groceries.
Yearly grocery budget for 4 adults – $7800.00 or $650.00 a month(The above total does not include the stockpile budget of $300/year or $25/month.
Total Grocery Budget for this Month: $650
Total Grocery Budget with any carry-overs $650
Total Gift Cards used to date: $40+25=$65.00
Total Rewards Points redeemed this week: $0
Total Rewards Points used to date: $80., 760 Air Miles
PC Optimum Points to Spend: 179651
Scanning Code of Practice (SCOP) to date $0
Zweet -$11.25
Checkout51- $13.50
Our Grocery Shop This Week
Foodland #1
1 jug water -5.49
1 cocoa -4.49, AM instant savings- 25%, 1.12, stock pile
1 bag raisins -3.99
1 case ginger ale -3.69
2 packs rice @2/5.00, stock pile
3 cans pasta sauce -@3/5.00
2 cans pineapple tidbits @1.39, 4 AM
1 4l milk -4.27
1 yogurt -2.99
4 lbs salted butter @2.99, stock pile
1 doz large eggs -2.79
1 green pepper -1.26
Bananas -1.28
1 grated parmesan cheese -6.60
1 bagels- 3.79
Total out of Pocket -$46.92 + 21.45 stock pile, $1.12 AM discount
No Frills
1 taco kit -2.97
2 pasta sauce @ 1.77
2 kg icing sugar @2.77
4cans tomato paste @.57
1 plum sauce -2.00
2 cans pineapple @1.27
1 Ziploc freezer bags -3.97
4 lbs salted butter @2.77
3 4l milk @ -4.27
2 packs perogies @2/3.00
2 GG frozen veggies @1.97
10 lbs potaotes -3.97
3 lbs onions -1.97
Bananas -.84
1 pack B/S chicken breasts -6.88
1 bagels -1.67
1 raisin bread -1.88
1 W/W bread -2.47
1 Pantene shampoo -3.97
1 Pantene conditioner -3.97
Total out of Pocket -$86.56
Foodland #2
1 jug water -5.49
2 cases ginger ale @3.69
1 corn starch -2.99
1 roll tin foil -2.99
1 2kg sugar -1.99, 3 AM bonus
3 cans pasta sauce @3/5.00
1 block swiss cheese -5.59
2 Baileys coffee creamer @ 2/5.00
1 cream cheese -2.99
1 turkey- 21.24
2 packs breakfast sausages @ 3.50
Total out of Pocket -$79.00
Note: All totals below already have tax factored into them.
Total to spend this month : $650
Stockpile budget 2018 : $25.00/month
Stockpile budget used this month: $21.45
Total coupons used this week: $0
Total coupons used to date: $26.00
Total in-store discounts this week: $0
Total in-store discounts to date: $35.84
Total spent this week: $210.93
Total spent so far this month: $210.93
Total over/Under spend this shop: over
Total left to spend for the month: $439.07
Total Spent To Date 2018: (does not include stockpile budget) Jan $565.41+Feb $414.90+March $548.60 + April $+ May $ + June $+July $+August $+September $+ October $+ November $ + December $
Weekly Overview (your final thoughts)
An expensive week but it happens. The turkey is in the freezer for now, it replaced the ham in there. We had the ham for Easter and will have the turkey shortly. I’m well stocked on butter now, both the salted fr every day and the unsalted for baking. I was getting low on the cocoa so it was nice to get the bonus air miles for it….Slowly getting caught up here….
When it comes to food returned, please let it be because the quality was not good. Produce, which is a crapshoot, that is a common one and why stores offer guaranteed freshness on the product and if not can be returned. However, returning non-perishables because “I bought too much”, “I don’t need”, “I already have one in the cupboard so I found”, etc. Guess what happens to those products? They are NOT reshelved for resale. They have to be claimed out and tossed. They have been out of the store. Following Health Canada rules, returned food product becomes garbage.
Also, if returning something, don’t lie as to why you’re returning a product. Be truthful as to the reason. Be truthful that you indeed have opened the box. Be truthful that you have actually used the product. Don’t play games.
How about Metro’s return policy? I can’t find it on metro’s website.
Although I know foodbasics and Metro are under the same ranch, I don’t feel that they are exactly the same…
Hi Sara,
I didn’t realize I hadn’t added Metro Grocery store return policy. I have it and will update it as soon as I’m in my office. Thanks for letting me know.
Mr.CBB
July 12, 2023
Highly recommend people review the Walmart Return Policy. It has been updated since mid-June 2023, with more restrictions, exceptions, and some time frame adjustments. Plus they now emphasize that a receipt must accompany a product being returned.
Hi Shannon,
Thanks, I’ve updated the post and the link is still directed to the Walmart Return Policy.
Mr. CBB