With all the advertisements on social media and all the Christmas promotions along the Orchard Road, we are constantly bombarded with visions of owning new things. The marketers know how to push our buttons and how to make us click “buy now”.
Pause for a while! There are ways to tame our desires. Wanting is an emotional response to being unsatisfied with what you already have. Satisfying wants can give you a temporary high, but it wears off. Consider the following factors when deciding to purchase something or not.
#1: PRICE
The first question to ask yourself is whether you can afford the item or not. This question is not as simple as it sounds. If you can afford the item, you must ensure that the money is coming out of your budget and not from your credit card. Do not spend money that you are expecting to get.
Lastly, you can save money for a big purchase if you cannot afford it now. Asking money instead of gifts for your birthday or wedding can be doable too.
#2: OPTIONS
Study your options before adding the item to your cart. This will give you time to ponder about the purchase. You can either do window shopping in the nearby shopping malls or browse different online shops. Consider what you already have and weigh the costs of the possible purchase.
#3: QUALITY
Know the quality of your purchase by reading the online reviews. What do others think about the item? Ask your friends for their opinion regarding the item too. They may give you tips on where to get the most affordable and durable option.
More than the style or the brand, consider if the functions of the item will last you for a long time. Unless what you already have is obsolete, buying a similar item is wasteful.
#4: PURPOSE
Distinguish whether what you aim to purchase is a want or a need. If you do not need the item, you may want to reconsider the purpose of your purchase. You can save money to make room for the things you want.
Image Credits: pixabay.com
On the other hand, a need is a requirement or a necessary duty. Buying what you need should be a priority. Adjust your budget to fulfill your daily needs. Always try to get the best value for your money.
Yesterday, we wrote about discounted deals at FairPrice from now till 13 August. Click the link to see what’s on sale if you missed out on our article. We know that there are Giant frequent shoppers out there as well so this one’s for you.
Save more with these discounted items from now till 12 August 2020:
#1: Japanese Variety Sweet Potatoes
Sale Price: 2.30 SGD/1kg
Discount: 34% off
This Japanese variety of sweet potatoes with its purplish skin is a great alternative to the traditional bright orange sweet potato we’re used to. It’s naturally low in fat, rich in antioxidants, and filled with heart-healthy minerals. To prepare, you can either choose to grill or steam it.
#2: RUN RAFA RUN White Airen
Usual Price: 22 SGD
Sale Price: 15 SGD
Discount: 31% off
Take a break from the classic red wine and sip on some White Airen. Pop the bottle and you will be immediately drawn to the fruity aroma of lemon and other citrus fruits. Being crisp and light, even wine beginners will appreciate it!
#3: MALAYSIA Red Seedless Watermelon (+/-4kg)
Usual Price: 7.95 SGD
Sale Price: 5.45 SGD
Discount: 31% off
Have you heard of subak soju? Otherwise known as watermelon soju, it’s a very popular cocktail that mixes watermelon and soju together. The ratio of soju to blended watermelon is 1:1. Vodka works fine as a substitute for soju as well.
#4: NUTELLA Hazelnut Spread (680g)
Usual Price: 9.95 SGD
Sale Price: 7.50 SGD
Discount: 24% off
Nutella fans, put your hands up! This creamy hazelnut spread got us looking for recipes to make Nutella-inspired recipes. We think we might DIY a Nutella milkshake this weekend. What about you?
#5: KINDER Bueno Chocolates (430g)
Usual Price: 14.80 SGD
Sale Price: 11.20 SGD
Discount: 24% off
If you’re bagging home the bottle of Nutella, why not double the chocolatey taste with Kinder Bueno Chocolates? There are 10 x 2 individually wrapped bars so after doing the math, it’s about 56 cents for one chocolate bar. Includes freebies too.
#6: A&W Root Beer (12 x 320ml)
Usual Price: 9.15 SGD
Sale Price: 6.95 SGD
Discount: 24% off
Oh my, A&W Root Beer on sale. With the discount, one can of root beer goes for less than 60 cents! Coupled with rich vanilla ice cream, we can already taste the goodness just thinking about it. If you don’t like root beer, get the lemon-lime infused Sprite that’s also on sale.
#7: CARLSBERG Beer (12s x 320ml)
Usual Price: 28.35 SGD
Sale Price: 22.50 SGD
Discount: 20% off
Drink first, think later. Probably not the best advice out there but when there’s a sale… how can anyone say no to Carlsberg beer? After doing the calculations, one can of beer costs only 1.88 SGD. Sweet.
#8: CP Popcorn Chicken Tom Yam (700g)
Usual Price: 8.95 SGD
Sale Price: 2 for 14.55 SGD
One bag of tom yam flavoured popcorn chicken costs only 7.28 SGD if you purchase two packs. If you can’t take spice, then get the original option. Best taken with beer. Chimaek (Korea’s pairing of fried chicken and beer), go go!
#9: FEATHERSOFT 3 Ply Printed Toilet Rolls (10s)
Usual Price: 5.95 SGD
Sale Price: 3 for 11.90 SGD
Thank God the toilet paper frenzy is over now… all is it not? With the ongoing pandemic and a second wave threatening to hit like a time bomb, it’s probably a good choice to buy now. Not asking you to buy in bulk but if you’re running out of this essential, tap on this sale to stock up.
#10: Red Seedless Grapes (Punnet) +/-500g
Usual Price: 3.95 SGD
Sale Price: 2 for 4.95 SGD
Giant is running a two for 4.95 SGD sale. This means one punnet of red seedless grapes is only about 2.50 SGD. If you’re on a salad diet, add in a couple of grapes to balance out the sugar you need for your body to function properly. Besides that, it tastes great too!
#11: MEXICO Avocado
Usual Price: 1.80 SGD
Sale Price: 4 for 4.95 SGD
The benefits of eating avocado are plenty. They include abundant nutrients, heart-healthy monounsaturated fatty acids, and rich in fibre. With this ongoing promotion, this little fruit costs only 1.24 SGD if you buy four in one go.
#12: NEW ZEALAND Royal Gala Apple
Usual Price: 1 SGD
Sale Price: 10 for 3.95 SGD
An apple a day keeps the doctor away. Bet you know I was going to say that! But are you aware that apples contain many nutrients that may lower the risk of stroke? Load up on apples for the family this week.
Can’t afford a trip to Hong Kong right now but at least we’re able to satisfy our Hong Kong milk tea cravings with Old Town’s Hong Kong Milk Tea. Assorted flavours are available.
#15: SEARA Frozen Whole Chicken Griller (800g)
Usual Price: 2.90 SGD
Sale Price: 2 for 4.85 SGD
Averaging out, one whole chicken costs only 2.43 SGD if you buy two! That’s a steal. Consider brewing some herbal chicken soup for a meal, definitely a healthier option compared to eating out.
If you want to save more, take this chance to purchase discounted items from FairPrice’s weekly deals. We did the shopping for you in advance so you can just scroll through this list to see if it’s worth a trip down to the stores or shop online.
Here are the discounted items you must buy from now till 13 August 2020:
Last weekend, I bought the salted egg version to try. That was before the sale… boohoo. If you’re thinking of doing away with the classic flavours, how about giving this bak kwa flavoured chips a bite? Or challenge yourself to the super spicy Hell’s Potato Chips.
#3: Hanmirae Seaweed Snack – Teriyaki
Usual Price: 1.85 SGD
Sale Price: 2 for 2.75 SGD
Savings: 0.95 SGD
Do it the Korean way by wrapping seaweed with rice. Those who prefer a little more flavour can pair it with tuna and mayonnaise. A fuss-free way to whip up a simple meal! Other flavours include spicy and roasted.
#4: Marigold Power Beans Fresh Soya Milk – Reduced Sugar
Usual Price: 1.95 SGD
Sale Price: 2 for 3.25 SGD
Savings: 0.65 SGD
Marigold Power Beans Fresh Soya Milk is cholesterol-free, high in calcium, and a source of protein. Your body will thank you for taking in a reduced sugar version. Think you’re up for a healthier alternative? Try the unsweetened option.
#6: Paseo Antibacterial Cleaning Wipes (2 x 25 per pack)
Usual Price: 2.80 SGD
Sale Price: 2 for 3.55 SGD
Savings: 2.05 SGD
Keep this handy pack of antibacterial cleaning wipes in your handbag or backpack when you head out. There is no alcohol in the product and it contains natural ingredients like aloe vera extract to keep your skin moisturized.
Staying in for National Day and stocking up on snacks to last you through the long weekend? Rather than deep-fried tidbits, go for healthier baked snacks like the N.O.I Baked Crispy Seaweed – Popping Grains. Comes in assorted flavours!
#8: New Moon Paste – Rendang
Usual Price: 3.40 SGD
Sale Price: 2 for 5.35 SGD
Savings: 1.45 SGD
Planning what to cook for the family can be a real headache at times. With New Moon’s assorted premium pastes, you can easily whip up delicious rendang, Hainanese chicken rice, laksa, and more.
#9: Cocomax 100% Coconut Bottle Water
Usual Price: 3.75 SGD
Sale Price: 2 for 5.85 SGD
Savings: 1.65 SGD
Relive your Bali beach trip by sipping on chilled coconut juice. Made of 100% pure coconut water, this bottled drink is rich in vitamins, minerals, potassium, and manganese.
#10: Cowhead Creamy Yoghurt Drink – Blueberry
Usual Price: 4.20 SGD
Sale Price: 3 for 8.40 SGD
Savings: 4.20 SGD
Tip: Pour the yoghurt drink into popsicle moulds or trays before popping it into the freezer. Ice pops are best for Singapore’s all-year summer weather! Comes in original and strawberry flavours too.
#11: Kellogg’s Cereal – Cornflakes (Strawberry)
Usual Price: 5.40 SGD
Sale Price: 4.25 SGD
Savings: 1.15 SGD
Switch up your normal breakfast routine with a change from the classic Kellogg’s cereal. Made with real strawberry puree and berry pieces, the Kellogg’s Cereal – Cornflakes (Strawberry) is low in fat and does not contain any artificial colours or flavours. Also comes in banana flavour.
#13: Kirei Kirei Anti-bacterial Hand Soap – Refreshing Grape
Usual Price: 5.80 SGD
Sale Price: 2 for 8.95 SGD
Savings: 2.65 SGD
Practising frequent hand washing these days? Good to hear that! Use the Kirei Kirei Anti-bacterial Hand Soap – Refreshing Grape for better protection against germs! The handwash contains antibacterial and antiseptic ingredients and is gentle on the skin.
#14: FairPrice Frozen Dumplings – Vegetable
Usual Price: 6.55 SGD
Sale Price: 2 for 8.65 SGD
Savings: 4.45 SGD
Instead of dabao-ing at your favourite Kopitiam, why not make your own dumplings with FairPrice Frozen Dumplings – Vegetable? This product from Korea makes a good tea time snack. You can steam or choose to pan-fry them for extra crisp.
#15: UIC Big Value Liquid Detergent – Anti-Bacterial
Usual Price: 10.65 SGD
Sale Price: 8.35 SGD
Savings: 2.30 SGD
Get mum this huge 4kg bottle of anti-bacterial liquid detergent that’s bound to last for a long time before your next trip to the supermarket for a refill. It kills 99.9% of bacteria and removes stubborn stains. Suitable for indoor drying too! Also comes in a floral scent and colour care version.
Want to enjoy Korean BBQ but thinking twice about dining out and mingling with the crowd? We’ve got you. Chef’s Pork Premium Frozen Iberico Belly Slice which usually sells for 11.90 SGD is undergoing a massive price cut at three for 23.80 SGD. That’s about 7.94 SGD per pack!
We’re already three days into the month of August. It’s hard to believe we’re midway into the third quarter of this year! 2020 was definitely tough to bear for most of us. As such, we’re here to sweeten up your August with great deals for the malls in the West.
Considering the proximity of Jcube, Westgate, and IMM, we’ve put together some 1-for-1 deals, promotions, and more. Here are the juicy bargains for this month.
JCUBE
#1: Miss Tea Milk Tea Grand Slam Promotion
Bubble tea can save the day. Treat yourself to a cup of Miss Tea’s new flavour Milk Tea Grand Slam at 3.90 SGD. The usual price is at 5.20 SGD so here’s a reason to justify your sugar cravings. It’s only limited to one cup per customer.
Promo period: till 7 August
Location: JCube, B1-K13
#2: 1-for-1 Dalgona Coffee Series at LiHO TEA
LiHO TEA fans, where are you at? Enjoy 1-for-1 Dalgona Coffee Series at LiHO TEA. To enjoy this deal, download the CapitaStar App to redeem. The Dalgona Coffee Series includes these flavours:
Brown Sugar Pearl Coffee
Brown Sugar Pearl Yuan Yang
Blueberry Latte
Promo period: till 9 August
Location: JCube, 03-13
#3: Shi Jian Hotpot: Free serving of wagyu beef
Make it worth the calories with a quality free serving of wagyu beef when you purchase a family set A or B at Shi Jian Hotpot. Beef up the right way!
Promo period: till 14 August
Location: JCube, 02-19
WESTGATE
#4: Crystal Jade 1-for-1 Promotion
Dig into 1-for-1 dishes at Crystal Jade Hong Kong Kitchen. A well-spent weekend includes indulging in tasty dim sums like XO Carrot Cake, Baked Crispy Honey BBQ Pork Bolo Bun, and more. Additionally, enjoy two beverages at a special price of 3.80 SGD (usual price: 6.40 SGD).
Promo period: till 31 August
Location: Westgate, 04-42
#5: Anjappar 1-for-1 Promotion
Have the flexibility to go for a late lunch? Want to avoid the lunch crowd? Craving for North and South Indian cuisines? You’ve got to go for Anjappar’s 1-for-1 promotion from 2.30pm to 5.30pm on weekdays.
Promo period: till 31 August
Location: Westgate, 04-08
#6: COLLIN’S 1-for-1 Tea Break Special
Tea breaks are important to give your brain a break from the hectic day’s work. Call your favourite kakis and embark on a journey to COLLIN’S to enjoy its 1-for-1 on selected main course menu items. Available on weekdays from 3pm to 5pm.
Promo period: till 31 August
Location: Westgate, 01-05
IMM
#7: SK National Day 999 PURE GOLD Deals
Here’s your chance to own a piece of pure gold with prices starting from 55 SGD. Pre-order available in-store till 5 August only so hurry down today!
Promo period: till 5 August
Location: IMM, 01-26 to 27
#8:Cashback at Kappa Outlet
Time to update your wardrobe with new sports and activewear with Kappa. Now’s the time to shop because for every 75 SGD spent, you will receive a free 20 SGD cash voucher. Yes to savings! Also, view their National Day special promotion here.
Promo period: till 6 August / 10 August respectively
Location: IMM, 01-68
#9: Up to 80% off at Fred Perry Outlet Shop
Get your wardrobe staples at discounted prices with the iconic British heritage brand. Up to 80% off at Fred Perry Outlet Shop from now till the end of the month.
We are constantly bombarded with attractive promotions and other fantastic deals whether we shop online or offline. In most cases, we cannot let these promotions pass by. Here are just some of the reasons why it is hard to resist a good bargain:
SCORING DISCOUNTS INCREASES HAPPINESS
I have been tackling a pile of paperworks for the past few weeks. I need to accomplish all my students’ documents before the new term starts. Needless to say, my stress level has been in its all-time high. As I was shopping for a gift, I saw a beautiful black dress on sale. It was on sale for 75%! How can I pass an attractive bargain like that? I felt good upon purchasing the dress.
The “pleasure” or “high” that we get from retail therapy highlights its ability to minimize sadness. Researchers from Stanford University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and Carnegie Mellon University found that the pleasure center (i.e., nucleus accumbens) activates when a participant saw a desirable object for sale.
Image Credits: pixabay.com
In contrast, an expensive item will cause the insula to be most activated. The insular cortex or insula is responsible for producing emotions which are relevant to your experience. Simply, it can evoke unpleasant feelings to steer you away from purchasing an item.
While shopping, our brains weigh between the immediate pleasure of acquisition and the immediate pain of paying. It seems that finding something you like and on a bargain can make you feel happier.
BARGAIN HUNTING ELICITS CONTROL
When was the last time you felt in control? Perhaps, you felt in control when the company event went smoothly as you planned. Or, when you found a S$20 bill in the street. Feeling in control is a positive thing in its general sense.
Dr. Dimitri Tsivrikos, a Consumer Psychologist, once said this statement in a BBC interview:
“The bargain price is appealing to you because it challenges the status quo. The retailer appears not to be in complete control of the final price of the product, and this makes you feel that you are now in control. And because of that you feel you can negotiate the final price that you have to pay – whether that is the sale price or even a buy one get one free deal…”
We tend to increase the likelihood of positive feelings by repeating our behavior such as bargain hunting. The positive feelings attached to it may cloud your judgement as to whether an item is actually a beneficial offer or not.
DEALS BRING EXCITEMENT
There are two types of “low pricing” models that retailers apply to attract the consumers. These are mainly the High-Low Pricing Model (e.g., H&M Singapore and their year-round sales) and the Everyday Low Pricing Model (e.g., IKEA Singapore’s core). The latter features low prices but no flashy discounts.
There is a sense of predictability with the Everyday Low Pricing model. You know that you will be receiving cheaper prices whenever you visit. However, some consumers seek adventure.
I remember the time when I bought a S$7 silk skirt, which previously retailed for S$30. I had to go through a pile of clothes to find the right size! Excitement is achieved upon scoring favorable deals in the “sale rack”.
IT BECOMES AN ADDICTION
Not skipping on an offer twice or thrice a month is acceptable. Constantly hunting for a bargain is another story. Addiction to bargain-hunting blurs out the value of an item and focuses on how big the price reduction is. Dr. April Benson, author and psychologist, highlighted that bigger price cuts are more tempting to purchase.
“If something’s 80% off the original price – you’re saving 80 percent! What you may not consider is that by not buying, you’ll save 100%!”
Image Credits: pixabay.com
Singaporeans who cannot resist the temptation of promotions may make illogical purchases such as purchasing children’s clothes for children that they do not have. They may not realize that they have a problem until the bank statements start catching up.
