Mastering Supermarket Discount Stickers | Markdown Times and Smart Shopping Tips

Making the most of supermarket half-price stickers can drastically cut your food budget. Here is when markdowns happen and how to shop smart.

■ When Do Half-Price Stickers Appear?
- Prepared foods and bento: Usually 1-2 hours before closing (often around 8 PM)
- Bread: 20% off from around 4-6 PM, then half-price near closing
- Fresh fish: After evening. Sashimi in particular gets steep discounts since it must be consumed the same day
- Meat: 20-30% off in the morning to afternoon on the expiry date, then half-price by evening
- Vegetables: Discounted when they start showing wear (timing varies)

■ Tips for Success
1. Learn your regular supermarket's markdown schedule
Each store stickers at different times. Get to know the habits of the store you visit most.

2. Freeze half-price items immediately
Meat, bread, and prepared foods bought at half price and frozen right away are essentially fresh ingredients stocked at half the original cost.

3. Do not go just for discounted items
If you go specifically for half-price items, impulse buys can cancel out your savings. Treat markdown checks as part of your regular shopping trip.

4. Right before closing, the selection is slim
Go too late and the good items may be gone. About one hour before closing strikes the best balance.

5. Do not hop between multiple supermarkets
Factoring in transportation costs and time, shopping efficiently at one store usually saves more overall.

Find nearby supermarkets and Gyomu Super locations on KetchUP's map.

* Listed prices are as of 2025. Prices may vary by location and season. Please check the latest prices at each restaurant.