How poundshops trick you into a bargain but you might get the same goods cheaper elsewhere
Shoppers are forking out extra money for the same goods because they think they're getting the best deal
BARGAIN stores have taken over British high streets - but shoppers shouldn't be fooled into thinking they're always getting the best deal.
Poundland and Poundworld bosses have made millions since demand for discount chains soared.
And with prices capped at £1, you'd be forgiven for thinking you're getting your shopping at the cheapest price around.
But with competition for your cash at an all time high, prices are constantly in supermarkets - meaning you could be paying less elsewhere.
A of 15 everyday household items — ranging from baby wipes to nail varnish and Cadbury Fingers chocolate biscuits — uncovered savings of up to 50 per cent by buying them in other retailers.
Martin Lewis, founder of moneysavingexpert.com, said: "It’s very easy and good psychology.
"In a pound shop, you feel that you know how much your shopping is going to cost.
"If you’ve got six items in your basket, then it will cost £6. So you feel in control.
But because everything costs a pound, some may feel the urge to fill up their baskets - and spend even more money than before.
Everyday households items are the ones to watch out for.
Toilet rolls, washing powder, shampoo and even tampons are picked up by millions of people every day - so it's worth shopping around to make sure you can get your favourite brand at the cheapest price.
It might seem like you're getting a bargain at a pound store, but remember they have their own special sized packets.
Martin Lewis added: "The leading pound stores often have their own special sized packets. So it isn’t as simple as saying: 'That product looks the same as the one I buy elsewhere, but it’s 50p cheaper."
In 2012, journalist Harry Wallop presented 'Dispatches: Secrets of Poundland’ on Channel 4.
At the time he wrote for the : "There is no suggestion that Poundland is trying to mislead customers, and it points out that sizes are clearly printed on its products.
"But consumer lawyers say that the Government and the Office of Fair Trading have become increasingly keen in recent years to ensure the prices in shops are as clear as possible.
"Of course, we all like to think we are savvy shoppers, able to spot such canny marketing a mile off.
"But consumer experts suggest that big, bold stickers are effective."
However, Poundland claims its own independent research revealed that it offers better value on "the vast majority" of products.
Every two weeks the chain carried out price surveys comparing itself against the supermarkets.
Poundland is "significantly cheaper" on 1,000 branded products, the discount chain claimed.
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How NOT to be fooled into falling for a dud deal...
1. SHOP AROUND. Don't be lazy and stick to one store to buy all of your shopping. It may take up a bit more time, but visit a few supermarket chains and take advantage of their special offers.
2. BE SAVVY. Check what you should be paying for your products by searching comparison websites. lists all the items sold on Poundland - and shows what you could be paying for the same product across all the big supermarkets.
3. CHECK SIZES. You may think you're getting a great deal for a pound but what are you getting for your money? Pound stores have their own sizing so you need to make sure you check the wait because you could be paying out more for a product half the size.
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