Store brands, also called private label, are typically 20–30% cheaper than national brands on many everyday items, and their quality has improved a lot in recent years.
Strong categories for switching
- Pantry staples: flour, sugar, pasta, rice, canned tomatoes, beans
- Dairy: milk, yogurt and, in many cases, cheese
- Frozen vegetables and fruit
- Basic cleaning and paper products
These products are highly standardized, so the store version is often very close to the name brand.
Where name brands may still win
Some households prefer certain specialty items, a specific coffee, or products where taste matters most to them. Try the store version once; if your family notices, switch back for that one item.
Canadian store brands to know
- No Name, President's Choice: Loblaw banners (Superstore, No Frills, Loblaws)
- Compliments: Sobeys family (Sobeys, Safeway, FreshCo, IGA)
- Selection: Metro, Food Basics, Super C
- Great Value: Walmart
- Kirkland Signature: Costco
How to test a switch
- Pick one product you buy every week.
- Compare unit prices on the shelf.
- Read both ingredient lists.
- Try the store brand for two weeks.
Sources
- Canadian consumer analyses and retailer private-label reporting (2025–2026)
- Observed pricing patterns across major Canadian grocery banners
