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It really depends on where you live and what matters to you. In our region, Aldi and Lidl usually have the lowest prices, but Rewe and Edeka regularly run better deals on certain product categories - meat, fruit, or drinks. I always check the apps or flyers before shopping so I don't just walk into a store blind.

From my experience working in retail for many years, I'd recommend comparing the weekly ads. Most stores don't differ that dramatically, but there are definitely differences depending on the season and region. Aldi is solid for basics, Lidl often has interesting non-food deals, and if you're willing to spend a bit more, you sometimes find better quality at organic markets or smaller shops. In the end, you probably need a mix of several stores to really save money.

I think the most important thing is to actually sit down and compare what YOU personally buy. A lot of people just stare at the big deals, but those are often on stuff you don't even need. For example, if you buy a lot of organic products or brand names, then Aldi and Lidl aren't always that much cheaper than other stores because they have less selection. Rewe and Edeka make up for it with their weekly flyer deals that are often really good for specific items.

My trick: just write down what you buy regularly (don't go overboard, just your top 20 items). Then you compare at the different stores near you to see how much your typical shopping trip costs. Some stores are cheaper on fruit and veg, others on dairy products. The best deals also change with the season. In summer tomatoes are cheap everywhere, but in winter it might be worth checking out a different store. And don't forget: a lot of stores now have apps with extra deals that you only get with a loyalty card - you can save a decent amount if you're shopping there regularly anyway.

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