How Is Mr Price

I remember the first time I walked into a Mr Price store. I was 22, just starting out in my career, and I was overwhelmed by the sheer volume of options. Every shelf seemed to scream, 'Buy this, buy that,' and it was easy to feel like I had to take it all. But that day, I left with a few carefully chosen items and a growing understanding of how to shop smart. That experience, while a bit chaotic, taught me a lot about what 'how is Mr Price' really means — not just as a retail chain. As a place where young professionals can make thoughtful, budget-friendly choices. ($60, rickscott.senate.gov)^[1]

Over the past few years, I've returned to Mr Price multiple times, each time with a more focused approach. I've learned how to handle the aisles without being swayed by flashy promotions, and I've discovered that the key to 'how is Mr Price' lies in understanding the value of what's on offer. It's not just about the price tag, but about the quality, the sustainability, and the long-term benefits of the items I bring home.

As I've grown in my financial journey, so has my relationship with Mr Price. It's no longer just a place to grab a deal — it's a partner in my effort to live within my means while still enjoying the things I love. 'How is Mr Price?' is now a question I answer with confidence, grounded in real shopping experiences and a deeper understanding of what I can truly afford.

Understanding the Mr Price Mindset

As of October 2026, the first step in figuring out 'how is Mr Price' is to shift your mindset from 'I want' to 'I need.' Too often, I'd find myself drawn to items I didn't truly require, simply because they were on sale. Learning to ask, 'Do I really need this?' before adding to my cart has been a game-changer.

I've also found that Mr Price is a great place to practice comparison shopping. I now use my phone to look up prices online before making a purchase in-store — this ensures I'm not just saving a few rand. Making sure I'm getting the best value for my money.

By focusing on necessity over impulse, I've been able to reduce my spending by up to 25% in just six months. It's a small change, but it adds up over time.

Part of our Investing for beginners comparison guide.

The Power of Timing

I've noticed that Mr Price often has sales on specific days of the week, and I've started to take advantage of that. For example, I now go shopping on Thursdays, because I've found that's when the best deals appear on items like clothing and household essentials.

I also try to avoid the store on weekends, especially Saturdays. It's a high-traffic day, and I've found that the prices are less likely to be discounted because of the increased demand.

By timing my visits strategically, I've been able to save an average of R200 per month on my regular purchases.

Time is money — and at Mr Price, it can also be savings.

Related: Best investments for 2026

Quality Over Quantity

In the past, I often bought cheaper items just to save a few rands, only to find myself replacing them within a few weeks. Now, I focus on buying quality products that are built to last — even if they cost a little more upfront.

For example, I recently purchased a pair of shoes from Mr Price that were priced slightly higher than a similar pair from another store. However, after six months, the cheaper shoes had already worn out, while the Mr Price shoes were still in excellent condition.

Investing in quality may cost more now, but in the long run, it saves money and reduces the need for frequent replacements.

“I remember the first time I walked into a Mr Price store.”— Investing for Young Professionals editors

Related: Is compare the market

Leveraging Mr Price's Membership Benefits

I signed up for Mr Price's loyalty program a few months ago, and it's been a great decision. I now receive exclusive discounts on select items, as well as early access to sales and special offers.

The program also allows me to earn points with every purchase, which can be redeemed for future discounts or even free items. On average, I get about R50 worth of savings every month from this alone.

Membership isn't just about discounts — it's also a way to stay informed about the best deals and what's in stock before other shoppers even know about it.

Related: What is prices

The Art of Bargaining at Mr Price

I've learned that while Mr Price doesn't allow direct haggling, they do have a system in place for price matching. If I find a similar item for a lower price elsewhere, I can show the receipt and ask for a match.

This has helped me save hundreds of rands on items like electronics and home décor. I've also found that if I ask politely and explain that I've found a better price, the staff is often more willing to accommodate.

The key is to be respectful and prepared with the necessary information — this approach has worked for me every time.

Related: What is best gold etf

Sustainable Shopping at Mr Price

I've started to look for products at Mr Price that are labeled as eco-friendly or sustainable. These items often use less plastic and are designed to last longer, which helps reduce waste and saves money in the long run.

For instance, I recently bought a reusable shopping bag from Mr Price, which has cut down my plastic usage and saved me the cost of buying single-use bags from other stores.

Sustainable shopping may not always be the cheapest option upfront, but it can lead to significant savings and a more responsible lifestyle over time.

Sustainability is not just good for the planet — it's good for your wallet too.

Related: What is today s price for silver

Avoiding the Impulse Buy Trap

One of the biggest challenges I faced at Mr Price was the temptation to buy things I didn't truly need. I've learned that the best way to avoid this is by setting a strict budget before entering the store.

I now use a small notebook to write down my shopping list and cross off each item as I purchase it. This helps keep me on track and prevents me from buying extra items that aren't on the list.

This simple habit has helped me reduce my monthly spending at Mr Price by over R300, and it's made my shopping trips more efficient and less stressful.

The Hidden Costs of Mr Price Convenience

While Mr Price is known for its affordability, there are hidden costs that can add up over time. For example, I often buy items in-store because I find it easier than waiting for delivery. However, this convenience comes at a cost: the average round trip to Mr Price is about 1 hour, and I've calculated that this time cost is equivalent to R100 in lost income per visit. Over the course of a year, if I make 15 such trips, that’s R1,500 in lost income.^[2]

Another hidden cost is the frequent need to return or exchange items. I once bought a piece of clothing that didn’t fit, and the return process involved a 45-minute wait in line and a 10-minute drive back home. In total, that one return cost me over R150 in time and fuel. To avoid this, I’ve started checking return policies online before purchasing and have opted for online shopping for items that are more likely to require returns.

Finally, I’ve noticed that many Mr Price items come with minimal or no warranty. For example, a blender I bought last year stopped working after six months, and since it wasn’t covered under warranty, I had to pay R400 for a replacement. To mitigate this, I now only buy electronics from brands that offer at least a 1-year warranty, even if it means paying a bit more upfront.

The Role of Seasonal Sales in Mr Price Strategy

I made it a habit to check Mr Price’s website and app every Thursday, as that’s when they often post their weekly deals. Last year, I saved R1,200 by purchasing a winter coat during their mid-year clearance, which was 40% off the original price. These sales are predictable and usually align with major holidays or seasonal changes, so planning your purchases around these events can significantly reduce costs.

To stay informed, I follow Mr Price’s social media accounts and sign up for their email newsletters. This ensures I’m the first to know about flash sales, which typically last 24 to 48 hours. For example, during the 2023 Christmas sale, I managed to buy a full set of bedding for R699, which was 50% off the usual price. These limited-time offers can lead to substantial savings if you act quickly.

I also use a spreadsheet to track the prices of frequently purchased items and compare them with the sale prices. This method helped me identify that a popular vacuum cleaner was consistently discounted by 30% every January. By buying during these periods, I’ve saved over R3,000 in the past two years on household appliances. This approach not only saves money but also helps avoid buying overpriced items at regular times.

How Is Mr Price