Find out how this sneaky supermarket strategy is trying to influence you to buy brands!

Are you a savvy shopper or do you fall prey to the shiny displays and sale tags at your local supermarket?

If you're like most people, you probably have a shopping list in hand, but the moment you spot a sale, you're drawn in like a moth to a flame.

But did you know that your shopping choices are being subtly influenced by a clever strategy used by brands and supermarkets?

It's called the 'buy level' strategy, and it could be costing you more than you realise.


Ever wondered why your favourite brands always seem to be at eye level on the supermarket shelves?


Screenshot 2024-02-06 105148.png
Most people don't know that major brands are fighting for an ‘eye-level’ position on shelves in your favourite supermarkets. Image: Freepik


It's not a coincidence. Brands pay a premium, known as 'slotting fees', to have their products placed at eye level, increasing the likelihood of them being chosen over other brands.

Peter Resanceff, a Consumer Psychologist, Behaviouralist and Brand Strategist, explains that when it comes to supermarkets, it's all about 'location, location, location’.

‘The old adage...is as relevant in the supermarket as it is in real estate,’ Resanceff said.

'Many shoppers are totally unaware that the top spots on supermarket shelves are fiercely fought over by the major brands.’

‘The best positions on the shelf come at a price, and many of the big brands are willing to pay retailers handsomely for these premium spots.'


According to Resanceff, the mantra in marketing is 'eye level is buy level', with research consistently showing that products positioned at eye level sell more.

'It's where people's eyeballs naturally gravitate to when they approach a supermarket shelf,' he explained.

'So, it's no surprise that Woolies, Coles or other retailers will prioritise more expensive products, or those products that offer them higher profit margins, in this prime “eye level” position on the shelf.'

The 'slotting fees' also dictate the placement of sales stands you see at the front of aisles. This strategy isn't limited to physical stores; it's prevalent online too.

‘This tendency for retailers to push products and brands with higher prices and profit margins also happens frequently online,’ Resanceff remarked.

'Next time you search for a product on a retailer's website, take note of the first page of search results.’

‘The products that appear on the first screen will typically be those that offer the retailer the highest profit margins.’

‘Again, the big brands pay big bucks to be featured on this first screen,' Resanceff added.


So, how can you counter this natural tendency to shop at eye level and save money on your grocery bills? The secret lies in looking beyond the eye level.

'Next time you're at the supermarket, make sure you take a moment to look above and below to see what else is on offer,' Resanceff suggested.

'Likewise, if you're online, take the time to click through to the next few screens of search results. You may find that you leave with a much better value shopping trolley and extra dollars in your wallet.'

Another effective strategy to save money is to practise comparison shopping.

Instead of grabbing the first item you see, take a moment to compare different brands and their prices per unit.

This can help you identify the best value for money.

Remember, the cheapest product isn't always the best value, especially when it comes to groceries. Consider the quality, quantity, and the price per unit before making a decision.

Having a shopping list and sticking to it can also help you avoid falling for the 'buy level' strategy.

A list not only helps you remember what you need to buy but also keeps you focused and less likely to be swayed by shiny displays and sale tags.


Being aware of the 'buy level' strategy and knowing how to counter it can help you become a smarter shopper and save money on your grocery bills.

So, the next time you're at the supermarket or shopping online, remember to look beyond the eye level and compare different brands and their prices.

Key Takeaways
  • Shoppers are influenced by a supermarket strategy known as 'buy level,' where products at eye level are more likely to be selected.
  • Brands and supermarkets utilise 'slotting fees' to secure premium shelf positions for their products, which can affect consumer choice and spending.
  • Consumer Psychologist Peter Resanceff highlights that the best shelf locations are highly contested, with major brands willing to pay for these spots.
  • To find better value during grocery shopping, consumers should look at items positioned above and below eye level and explore beyond the first page of search results when shopping online.

What do you think of this story? Have you noticed these supermarket strategies? Let us know in the comments below.
 
Sponsored
I have to do a lot of stretching to reach stuff on the top shelf, it a pain being just 5ft tall. Too much bending is getting to be a problem some days. If I got on my knees I’d still be there, at least I won’t get carbuncle’s. We do have problems don’t we? 😂😂😂
Not to mention the vertigo you suffer WHEN you finally stand up....
 
  • Love
  • Like
Reactions: Leenie and PattiB
This should interest forum members recently while going through the checkout a gentleman behind me asked the checkout lady what is that under the area she was putting my shopping through and was told it’s a camera to see if you haven’t put all the items up to go through ,they are even spying on you at the manned checkouts, we are all being treated as untrustworthy,
Shame on Woolworths for this underhanded act.
 
You can never find staff to get an item down from the top shelf and I often have to ask shoppers to help ,which they are only too happy 😃 to do.
I have no problems with getting items from the top shelf who those who ask nicely. Some of those women have been appreciative and easy on the eye. Yeah....I'm just a natural born pervert and not ashamed to admit it! o_O
 
  • Haha
  • Like
Reactions: PattiB and Leenie
I have to do a lot of stretching to reach stuff on the top shelf, it a pain being just 5ft tall. Too much bending is getting to be a problem some days. If I got on my knees I’d still be there, at least I won’t get carbuncle’s. We do have problems don’t we? 😂😂😂
Me too being short ,I think we shrink as we get older ,I was 157 cm And now 151 I guess old age is catching up.
 
Wow aren’t you a bit young to have a walking frame , maybe when I graduate 👩‍🎓 to one we can see who can run the fastest, how about that ,by the way just got measured Friday at the cardio and am now 148 cm ,beat that shorty.
 
Wow aren’t you a bit young to have a walking frame , maybe when I graduate 👩‍🎓 to one we can see who can run the fastest, how about that ,by the way just got measured Friday at the cardio and am now 148 cm ,beat that shorty.
If I keep going at this pace I will soon be a grease spot haha.
 
Wow aren’t you a bit young to have a walking frame , maybe when I graduate 👩‍🎓 to one we can see who can run the fastest, how about that ,by the way just got measured Friday at the cardio and am now 148 cm ,beat that shorty.
Just the right height to rest my schooner glass on top of your head! Lemon squash of course!
 
  • Haha
Reactions: PattiB
Wow aren’t you a bit young to have a walking frame , maybe when I graduate 👩‍🎓 to one we can see who can run the fastest, how about that ,by the way just got measured Friday at the cardio and am now 148 cm ,beat that shorty.
This is a race I’ll have to see. Just give me time to get my plane ticket. 🤣
 

Join the conversation

News, deals, games, and bargains for Aussies over 60. From everyday expenses like groceries and eating out, to electronics, fashion and travel, the club is all about helping you make your money go further.

Seniors Discount Club

The SDC searches for the best deals, discounts, and bargains for Aussies over 60. From everyday expenses like groceries and eating out, to electronics, fashion and travel, the club is all about helping you make your money go further.
  1. New members
  2. Jokes & fun
  3. Photography
  4. Nostalgia / Yesterday's Australia
  5. Food and Lifestyle
  6. Money Saving Hacks
  7. Offtopic / Everything else

Latest Articles

  • We believe that retirement should be a time to relax and enjoy life, not worry about money. That's why we're here to help our members make the most of their retirement years. If you're over 60 and looking for ways to save money, connect with others, and have a laugh, we’d love to have you aboard.
  • Advertise with us

User Menu

Enjoyed Reading our Story?

  • Share this forum to your loved ones.
Change Weather Postcode×
Change Petrol Postcode×