Amanda Blankenship is the Chief Editor for District Media. She frequently writes for a handful of blogs and loves to share her own personal finance story with others. When she isn't typing away at her desk, she enjoys spending time with her daughter, son, husband, and dog. During her free time, you're likely to find her with her nose in a book, hiking, or playing RPG video games.

pre-cut vegetables

3 Reasons to Avoid Buying Pre-Cut Vegetables

It’s tempting to grab a container of pre-cut vegetables when you’re rushing through the supermarket, especially after a long day. They promise convenience, speed, and less mess—but that convenience often comes with hidden downsides. Many shoppers don’t realize they’re paying more for less freshness, less flavor, and sometimes even less safety. When you understand what…

grocery pricing secrets

8 Pricing Secrets Grocery Managers Don’t Want You to Know

Ever feel like your grocery bill keeps climbing, even when you’re buying the same things? That’s not your imagination—it’s strategy. Grocery stores use subtle pricing tactics to influence your behavior and boost profits. From how items are displayed to how discounts are framed, every detail is carefully calculated. Here are eight pricing secrets grocery managers…

grocery loyalty apps

Why Your Grocery Loyalty App Might Actually Be Costing You 25% More

Loyalty apps are everywhere—from Kroger to Safeway, Food Lion to Harris Teeter—and they’re marketed as the ultimate money-saving tool. Clip digital coupons, earn fuel points, unlock “member-only” prices—it all sounds like a win. But behind the flashy discounts and personalized offers, there’s a growing concern: some loyalty apps may actually be costing shoppers more. From…

store brand substitutes

7 Store Brand Substitutes That Save More Than Standard Coupons

Coupons are great—but they’re not the only way to slash your grocery bill. In fact, some of the biggest savings come from skipping name brands altogether and reaching for store brand substitutes. These private-label products often cost 20–40% less than their national counterparts, and in many cases, they’re made by the same manufacturers. With inflation…

grocery inflation

How Inflation Is Still Driving Grocery Costs Higher, According to Reports

Even as overall inflation appears to be cooling, grocery inflation is still quietly squeezing household budgets. According to the latest Consumer Price Index reports, food-at-home prices rose by 2.4% in 2025, with some categories climbing even faster. That means your weekly grocery haul is still more expensive than it was a year ago—despite headlines suggesting…