Each week, Columbia SC Moms Blog features ways for you to save money in our Sunday Saver series.
Bi-Lo is a regional grocery store chain based here in South Carolina. When I was growing up the tagline I remember was, “Bi-Lo, our produce is better because of Walter.” I don’t know if that was true or not, but it was certainly memorable! Bi-Lo was one of three grocery stores in the small town where I grew up, and the one I remember shopping at the most often. Currently, Bi-Lo has 15 locations within 15 miles of Columbia.
There are lots of savings to be found at Bi-Lo. Here’s what you need to know to get the most out of your shopping trip:
Sign Up for the Bi-Lo Bonus Card!
First things first, when you are a frequent shopper at Bi-Lo, you need to register for a Bi-Lo Bonus Card. Most of the savings offered are only valid for bonus card holders. You could ask the cashier to use the store card, but then they’re getting the savings, not you!
Benefits of the Bi-Lo Bonus Card
Fuelperks Program
Bi-Lo is probably the most well known for their fuelperks program. When you shop at Bi-Lo, you earn cents towards up to 20 dollars worth of gas at participating locations. Friends with smaller cars (NOT a minivan!) have bragged to me that they have filled up multiple cars on their monthly discount. Fuelperks are valid for the entire month they are accumulated and for three months after that, expiring on the last day of the third month. Most purchases earn you 5 cents per gallon for every $50 spent at Bi-Lo, but they often run promotions on certain items in the store that will earn you more per gallon.
Buy One Get One Free Items
Their store ad is reset every Wednesday and is full of many B1G1F items. In reality, each item rings up half price at the register so you don’t have to buy both to get the savings. If you do buy more than one item, you can use a manufacturer’s coupon on each. In addition to B1G1F savings, Bi-Lo offers a “price lock guarantee” where for at least ten weeks, items are locked in at a low price, saving you money when you shop.
$4 generic medications
Bi-Lo has a list of generic prescriptions that can be filled for only $4, and there is no need to provide proof of insurance.
Store Coupons
Occasionally Bi-Lo issues store coupons (another reason it’s important for you to use your own card with a current address), and you can use one manufacturer coupon and one store coupon per item.
Competitor Coupons
Bi-Lo will accept competitor coupons for items that are sold at both places or for $ off total purchase coupons. These coupons can also be used in conjunction with manufacturer coupons.
Double Coupons
They will double manufacturer coupons up to 60 cents at the register. Coupons must be originals, no copies, and only 5 like coupons can be used per transaction. In addition to doubling manufacturer coupons, Bi-Lo will accept a store coupon on top of your manufacturer’s coupons. To see the entire Bi-Lo coupon policy, click here.
Meal Deal
Perhaps my favorite way to save money at Bi-Lo is to purchase their meal deal. It’s generally worded that if you buy an entree, you’ll get several assorted items for free. These items can be anything from frozen pizzas to Stouffer’s entrees. Not necessarily the healthiest of options, but it’s bound to be healthier than items that you can get in most drive-thrus! Not to mention that you’re saving money by not purchasing drinks and other items that you might if you eat out.
Full Disclosure: Even though I’m familiar with Bi-Lo’s various savings policies, I don’t shop there often because there are two other grocery stores that are much closer to my home. However, after reviewing their website and writing up this post, I’m inclined to shop there more often!
What’s your favorite way to save at Bi-Lo? What should I start shopping there for? Leave me your responses in the comments!
** Awesome deal alert for August 17!! Several local Bi-Lo stores are offering a 15% off discount to all college students and faculty with a valid college id. Stop in and stock up!! **
