As one of San Diego’s most well-known discount stores, GTM takes pride in providing value to our customers. If people loved a bargain in 1980—when we first opened our doors—our prices are even more attractive now. But how much can you really save by shopping with us, especially when it comes to groceries? Let’s break it down and find out why shopping at discount stores can boost the modern San Diegan’s budget.
Discount Stores, Inflation, and Food
Every shopper feels the effects of inflation at the checkout line. According to the September 2025 news release by the Consumer Price Index (CPI), costs for goods continue to rise. Notably, the price of food increased by 3.2%. Whether you’re browsing the grocery store for pantry staples or hoping to get a drive-thru snack, you’re going to pay more now than you did just a few years ago. The good news? Shopping at discount stores like GTM can help stretch your dollar and fill your fridge.
Our aisles and coolers are stocked with a variety of grocery items, from sauces and snacks to cereal, yogurt, and drinks. Items are discounted up to 70% off retail prices, offering huge savings to shoppers. But how are we able to price these name-brand items so low? Through a combination of strategic and opportunistic buying.
For example, you’ll find that GTM offers a variety of health foods ranging from gluten-free and organic to plant-based and vegan. Our health food comes directly from nationwide distributors that service health food stores throughout the country. We’re able to buy truckloads of grocery items at a discount, allowing us to pass on the savings to our customers.
How Do We Get Our Groceries?
There are many reasons why a distributor decides to offer discounted, wholesale groceries to discount stores. For example, companies often regularly update their packaging and need to get rid of inventory with the previous design.
There may also be discontinued flavors that grocery stores no longer want to stock. Logistic reasons also account for how we acquire our grocery items. For example, a distributor may have an overstock of product due to canceled orders, stock changes, or inventory updates.
We may also get items that are close to their “Best By” or “Sell By” dates. These dates are not regulated by the USDA and do not mean the products expire. Product dating often contributes to food waste, as many consumers are confused by what the dates mean. They may even discard safe, edible food out of fear it will or has gone “bad.” However, as long as foods are in sealed packaging and stored at normal temperatures, there is usually no change in quality even past the product dating.
How Much Can You Save?
Now that you know how we pass on the savings to you, how much can you realistically expect to save? Let’s look at the numbers. Data shows that from 2023-2024, San Diegan’s spent about $7,092 on food at home—about $591 per month.
While our pricing and discounts vary based on the distributor, savings generally range from 20% to 70% off retail prices. Using that average grocery cost, our shoppers can save at least $118 per month just by shopping with us. Calculated over a year, that’s a savings of $1,416 per year! And of course, savings can ramp up depending on the item, current sales and coupons, and your GTM Rewards.
So what are you waiting for? It’s clear that shopping at GTM can save you big on groceries, especially with current inflation rates. Make sure to sign up for our email newsletter so you never miss a Weekly Ad, special event sale, or bonus coupon to stack up the savings. Comment below and let us know your best grocery finds!