In a significant shift in the competitive UK grocery landscape, Tesco has dethroned Asda to become the cheapest supermarket for a comprehensive 'big shop' according to fresh analysis from consumer champion Which?. The findings, based on January 2026 price data, highlight the growing influence of loyalty schemes on household budgets.
Tesco's Clubcard Edge Secures Top Spot
For a substantial basket of 228 everyday grocery items, Tesco's average price came in at £588.96 when utilising Clubcard promotions. This narrowly undercut Asda's total of £590.41, ending the latter's reign of over a year as the most affordable option for a major weekly shop. The analysis underscores how Tesco's targeted Clubcard discounts are providing tangible savings for savvy shoppers, though questions remain about the accessibility of such schemes for all consumers.
Discount Retailers Dominate Smaller Baskets
Meanwhile, the traditional discounters continue to lead for more focused shopping trips. Aldi maintained its position as the cheapest supermarket for a shorter list of 89 essential items, with an average January price of £164.74. Its rival Lidl followed closely behind, reinforcing the strong value proposition of the limited-assortment retailers for smaller, more frequent purchases.
Waitrose Remains the Premium Choice
At the other end of the spectrum, Waitrose consistently emerged as the most expensive supermarket in both comparisons. Its prices were significantly higher than the cheapest alternatives, cementing its position as a premium destination for grocery shopping where customers pay more for perceived quality and service.
The detailed analysis from Which? serves as a crucial barometer for household spending, revealing not just the outright cheapest options but also the strategic importance of loyalty programmes in the modern grocery war. As inflation pressures persist, these price differentials become ever more critical for family finances.
