It’s an argument that’s dominated news headlines for years; are supermarkets taking over? With the recent launch of Tesco’s used car buying website, can that argument now be put to bed?
Take a look at what the big supermarket brands are getting involved with and decide for yourself.
Cut your own keys at Asda
What used to be the job of a local cobbler or locksmith can now be done by your own fair hand at certain Asda stores.
The supermarket launched DIY key cutting in 100 stores nationwide. Customers just put their key into a machine and duplicates can be created there and then.
Get your eyes tested at Asda and Tesco
Your supermarket might not be the first place you think of when you need an eye test but Tesco and Asda both offer optician services in store as well as cheap glasses and contact lenses made to order.
Although this isn’t a new addition to the supermarkets offerings, business in this area has grown rapidly something to cause concern for the major high street opticians, according to retail analyst Verdict.
It predicts that supermarkets’ offering in-store opticians could more than triple market share in the optical industry in 2011 getting their hands on 4.7 per cent of the market, compared with 1.7 per cent in 2005.
Recycle for cash
If you go to Sainsbury’s, you can make money from your old mobile phone, digital camera, sat nav, MP3 or games consoles with the Sainsbury’s Recycle service.
It will give you a price for your old electrical goods after you enter the details and will send you an envelope in which to post your items to the retailer. After that, the money is paid directly into your bank account.
Tesco cash for gold
Yes it’s true – even Tesco will give you money for your unwanted gold these days. Its online service pays £8.50 per gram of gold and pays money directly into your bank after you post your gold to the giant.
Buy a car with Tesco
In April, Tesco became the first general retailer to launch a used car buying site. The supermarket giant, which already takes one in seven pounds spent by the British shopper, will be offering an internet-only service for buyers of second-hand cars.
Tesco says it will advertise up to 3,000 cars a week and consumers will be rewarded with 2,000 Tesco Clubcard points with any vehicle they buy.
It also launched Tesco tyres earlier this year, which claims to undercut high street retailers by 40 per cent.
Wedding wear
Asda has been producing a budget clothing line, George, for several years but the supermarket chain, which is owned by American retail giant Walmart, has recently stepped into the wedding market.
In 2010 it unveiled a collection, which includes a bride’s dress for £60 and a groom’s suit for £40, as well as bridesmaid’s dresses for £56. It means the bride and groom can be dressed for under £200.
Jewellery
If you haven’t got as far as the wedding attire then Asda and Tesco both offer bargain price jewellery, including engagement rings and wedding bands. A white Gold ring from Tesco will set you back from as little as £45 to £750 and prices at Asda start from £62.
Insurance
It’s no secret that our superstores are now firm fixtures in the insurance market. Most of the major brands now offer home insurance, motor insurance, travel insurance, wedding insurance and most other general insurances too. But has it gone too far? Or do we really want our supermarkets to be a one-stop-shop?
Tell me what you think about our superstores branching out further. Comment below, tweet me @confusedlois or email me at lois.avery@confused.com
