Many shoppers prefer grocery stores that offer price matching. It ensures they can get their hands on the best deals even if the best discounts are available at another grocer. But not all stores offer price matching, and figuring out which ones do can be surprisingly challenging. If you’ve ever wondered, “Does Giant Eagle price match?” here’s what you need to know.
What Is Price Matching, and How Does It Work?
Price matching is a fairly simple concept. It covers stores willing to match a lower price that’s being offered by a direct competitor for that specific item. Usually, the store with a price match policy can define which other retailers are or are not competitors. For example, they may limit price matching to physical stores within a certain radius, or could be broader, also accepting online prices at major e-commerce retailers.
The products have to be exactly alike to qualify. For example, the model number or UPC typically has to match. However, for items like fresh produce, the matching may simply require that it be the fruit or vegetable, including the same variety and other identifiers (such as organic or non-organic).
Additionally, the shopper commonly has to provide proof of the lower price and where it is being sold. Usually, that means having a sales flyer or webpage available as evidence.
In most cases, getting a price match at the time of checkout simply involves informing the cashier of the lower price and showing them the evidence. They can then follow the store’s procedures to provide the discount, suggesting you qualify.
Some stores do have price match policies that work after the sale, though this is rare. For these, you may need to bring your receipt and evidence to a customer service counter within the designated price matching window, allowing you to secure a refund for the difference.
It’s important to note that a variety of other conditions can apply. For example, stores usually won’t price match a clearance price, or when the lower price is clearly a typo and not a legitimate discount. Every store has a unique price match policy, if they offer the service, outlining the requirements. Any request that doesn’t align with the rules is going to be denied.
Does Giant Eagle Price Match Guarantee?
While Giant Eagle doesn’t explicitly state they don’t price match, the store does not have a price matching policy. Since there is no policy outlining the service, it’s safe to conclude that the retailer does not offer it.
Giant Eagle Pricing Policies
While Giant Eagle doesn’t have a price match policy, it does have another pricing policy that could benefit shoppers.
First, there’s the price accuracy policy. If you discover that you were charged more than the posted or advertised price on an item, the first improperly scanned product is free as long as it is worth no more than $25. For items over $25, the customer will receive the first of them for $25 off the lower, correct price.
If you bought multiples, the price accuracy policy allows for changes here, as well. The subsequent items (including if they are different varieties, such as different flavors of the same type of cereal) are adjusted to reflect the correct, lower price.
Grocery Stores That Offer Price Matching
Many major retailers do offer some form of price matching, including on grocery items. While each store controls its own policy, allowing it to set its own rules and outline unique restrictions, it could benefit savvy shoppers who are willing to take the time to get discounts.
Target offers price matches for select online retailers and local competitor print ad prices. There are quite a few requirements and restrictions outlined by Target on its website. But, if your purchase qualifies, you can request the discount at checkout or within 14 days after making the purchase.
Walmart also has price matching, though its program is fairly restrictive. For example, you’re limited to one item per day, so you can’t get a reduction if you purchase multiples of an item or two separate products that could both potentially qualify. Other rules are listed on the Walmart website.
Price Matches Can Be Added, Removed or Altered
It is important to point out that companies can add, remove, or alter their price matching policies, mainly at their discretion. Usually, major retailers will announce modifications that are more restrictive or removals of services in advance.
When new options are coming available, a retailer may choose to advertise them to entice shoppers. However, some may simply add the policy without an announcement. As a result, savvy shoppers should review the policies of their favorite grocers regularly. That way, they can explore new options or policy changes as soon as possible, ensuring they are well-informed and can get the best deals.
Do you prefer grocery stores that offer price matching? If Giant Eagle started a price match guarantee, would you shop there more, or would it matter? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Read More:
- Grocery Budget: When You Shop Can Save You Money
- How to Eat Well on $100 per Month
- How to Order Online and Pickup Groceries at Aldi’s
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