Is This Supermarket's New Meal Deal the Cheapest in the UK Without a Loyalty Card?

Supermarket meal deals have become a staple for shoppers seeking convenience and value. However, recent price hikes have stirred discussions about affordability. Asda is stepping up by introducing a new £3.74 fixed-price meal deal, which promises to be the cheapest available without requiring a loyalty card. This deal includes a main, a snack, and a drink from an extensive selection, potentially saving customers up to 50% compared to buying items individually.

Last updated: 17 September 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Asda is launching a £3.74 fixed-price meal deal, the cheapest in supermarkets without a loyalty card.
• The deal offers a choice of main, snack, and drink from a large selection.
• Customers can save up to 50% compared to purchasing items separately.
• The meal deal will be available in all Asda supermarkets and Express stores from 17 September.
• All meal deals will be HFSS compliant, adhering to new legislation on multi-buy promotions.

Current State of Supermarket Meal Deals

Meal deals have long been a go-to for busy consumers looking for a quick bite without breaking the bank. Traditionally, these deals included a sandwich, a snack, and a drink for a flat price. However, recent months have seen significant price increases across various retailers.

Price Changes at Major Supermarkets

In 2022, a standard meal deal at Tesco was priced at £3. By 2023, this has risen to £3.85 for Clubcard holders and £4.25 for non-members. Sainsbury’s meal deals now cost £3.95, while Morrisons charges £3.60 with a More Card and £4 without one. These increases have prompted many shoppers to reconsider their options.

Asda's Response: A Competitive Meal Deal

Asda's new meal deal is set to disrupt the market by offering a lower price point than its competitors. At £3.74, this meal deal includes a choice from a wide range of products. Asda’s offering includes 132 different mains, 336 snacks, and 222 drinks, providing customers with an impressive variety of combinations.

What’s Included in the Meal Deal?

Shoppers can select from various options, such as:

• Asda Chicken and Bacon Sandwich
• Asda Cheese and Onion Sandwich
• Apple Slices with a Toffee Dip
• Doritos Tangy Cheese Tortilla Crisps
• Coca-Cola Zero

This extensive selection ensures that there are choices to cater to different tastes and preferences.

Value Proposition: How Much Can You Save?

Asda claims that customers can save up to 50% compared to purchasing the same items individually. This significant saving highlights the value of the new meal deal, especially for those on a budget or looking to maximise their spending.

Comparison with Competitor Offers

To illustrate the value of Asda’s meal deal, consider the following:

• Tesco: £3.85 with a Clubcard (£4.25 without)
• Sainsbury’s: £3.95
• Morrisons: £3.60 with a More Card (£4 without)
• Asda: £3.74 (no loyalty card required)

As seen in the comparison, Asda's meal deal not only provides a lower price but also does not require a loyalty card, making it accessible to all customers.

The Transition from 3 for 2 to Fixed Price Meal Deal

This new meal deal replaces Asda’s previous 3 for 2 offer on its Food to Go counters. The change aims to simplify the buying process for customers while ensuring they receive value for money. The new deal will be available in all Asda supermarkets and 478 Asda Express stores, effective from 17 September.

Compliance with HFSS Legislation

Asda has announced that all meal deals will be fully compliant with the new HFSS (high in fat, sugar, or salt) legislation. This regulation impacts multi-buy promotions, reflecting an increased focus on healthier food options within the supermarket sector. Asda's commitment to compliance demonstrates its dedication to promoting healthier eating habits among customers.

Real-World Example: Finding the Best Deals

In a recent comparison, a Metro journalist set out to find a cheaper combination of items than Tesco’s meal deal. Initially priced at £3.60 with a Clubcard, the journalist ended up purchasing a Ginsters Chicken & Bacon Pasty, a Caramelised Onion Scotch Egg, a bottle of Peach and Passionfruit Sparkling Water, and an Apple and Grape Snack Pack for just £3.55. This experience highlights the importance of shopping around to find the best value.

Implications for Consumers

Asda's introduction of the £3.74 meal deal could influence other retailers to reconsider their pricing strategies. With consumers increasingly price-sensitive, this move may lead to more competitive pricing across the market. It also signals the importance of loyalty cards and promotions in influencing shopping behaviour.

What Happens Next?

As the new meal deal rolls out, it will be interesting to see how competitors respond. Will they lower their prices, or will they focus on enhancing their product offerings? For consumers, this is an opportunity to take advantage of a more competitive market.

FAQs

What is included in Asda's £3.74 meal deal?

Asda's £3.74 meal deal includes a choice of a main, a snack, and a drink from an extensive range. Customers can select from 132 mains, 336 snacks, and 222 drinks.

When will the new meal deal be available?

The new meal deal will be available from 17 September 2023 in all Asda supermarkets and Express stores.

How much can customers save with the meal deal?

Customers can save up to 50% compared to buying the same items individually outside of the meal deal.

Do I need a loyalty card to purchase the Asda meal deal?

No, Asda's meal deal is available to all customers without the need for a loyalty card.

What does HFSS compliance mean for the meal deal?

HFSS compliance ensures that the meal deal adheres to new regulations regarding high fat, sugar, or salt products, promoting healthier eating options.

As the supermarket competition heats up, consumers may find themselves benefiting from better deals and more choices. Will you be trying Asda's new meal deal or sticking with your current favourites? #AsdaMealDeal #SupermarketSavings #FoodToGo