I've been tracking spending on regularly bought items since August 2006, which means my price book spreadsheet has grown to an alarmingly large file size. All that data entry needs to be put to good use, so I'm going to do a series of price book analysis posts.
The spreadsheet is organized by type of item (eggs, orange juice, white bread, dishwasher detergent), so by default each post will follow a similar structure. I want to approach it from several viewpoints so that I can establish a baseline price, and get an idea of price trending at various stores.
I have a vague idea of what a good price is for almost anything we buy, but I want to know the difference between a decent sale price and stock-up worthy price, specific to stores in my area. Otherwise, I have to check all the sales and open up my price book, etc. etc. This analysis is a way to make saving money, well, just easier to fit into life.
How I'll break the price book down, item by item:
- average purchase price -- overall, by store, per unit
- spending in various time frames
- coupons, sales and final price
We tend to stick to the same brands unless it's an excellent deal, so this series may be hit or miss in terms of usefulness depending on what you tend to purchase. We also tend to shop at certain stores for reasons beyond price, such as selection and proximity. We have a two-person household, but we do often feed others. Finally, our main grocery stores double coupons up to $0.50, I think I would cry if they discontinued this.
Look for the first post in the series soon!
Click on the price book category on the right to see all the available posts.
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