Aldi has once again secured its position as the UK’s most budget-friendly supermarket in 2025, according to consumer advocates at Which?. Which? monitors grocery prices daily and consistently ranks Aldi as the cheapest store in the UK. Throughout 2025, Aldi claimed the top spot for affordability in ten out of 12 months, marking its fifth consecutive year as the most economical supermarket.
In December, Aldi maintained its lead by offering the lowest prices for a selection of 68 items, with an average monthly cost of £123.60. Lidl followed closely behind, costing just 10p more at £123.70 for both Lidl Plus members and non-members. While Lidl managed to snag the title of cheapest supermarket twice in 2025, in July and October, the overall price difference between Aldi and Lidl for the year was a mere 77p.
Comparatively, Asda shoppers spent approximately £134.89 on the same 68 items in December, while Tesco Clubcard holders paid £135.84 with a Clubcard or £139.12 without one. Sainsbury’s Nectar cardholders parted with £141.45, or £143.74 without a Nectar card, for the same list. Waitrose, on the other hand, emerged as the priciest option, with a total of £170.46 for the 68 items in December.
Further research by Which? unveiled that Waitrose averaged 35% higher costs than Aldi throughout 2025. The comparison also extended to a larger weekly shop comprising 180 items, excluding Aldi and Lidl due to their smaller product range. Asda emerged as the most cost-effective choice in December for the 180-item list, with an average bill of £450.82.
Tesco Clubcard holders spent an average of £462 in December on the 180 items, while non-Clubcard holders paid £493.53. Morrisons shoppers saw bills of £466.04 with a loyalty discount or £467.46 without one. Sainsbury’s Nectar cardholders paid £468.61, while non-members paid £501.89.
Waitrose maintained its position as the priciest option for the larger shop, with an average bill of £529.17. The analysis factored in special offers and loyalty prices but excluded multibuy promotions.
According to Reena Sewraz, Which? Retail Editor, Aldi’s consistent affordability underscores its reputation as the UK’s most economical supermarket. While Lidl remains a strong contender among discounters, Aldi’s overall lower prices and consistent monthly wins set it apart. Asda also stands out for offering a wide range of branded goods at competitive prices.
Given the ongoing concerns about food costs for many households, shopping around for groceries can lead to significant savings. Choosing one supermarket over another could potentially save shoppers hundreds of pounds annually.