Why shopping in the UK is different
Many expats arriving in the UK are surprised by:
- The variety of supermarkets
- Online shopping options
- Next-day delivery services
- Retail parks
- Outlet shopping villages
- High street brands
The UK has one of Europe’s most developed retail sectors, making it easy to find everything from everyday essentials to luxury goods.
UK Supermarkets Explained
Premium Supermarkets
- Waitrose
- Marks & Spencers Food
Best For:
- Premium food
- Prepared meals
- High-quality ingredients
Mid-Market Supermarkets
- Sainsbury's
- Tesco
- Morrisons
- Asda
Best For:
- Weekly family shopping
- Broad product range
- Loyalty schemes
Budget Supermarkets
- Aldi
- Lidl
Best For:
- Lowest Prices
- Weekly Essentials
- Value Shopping
Online Grocery Shopping
Popular Services Include:
- Ocado
- Sainsbury's Delivery
- Waitrose Delivery
- Tesco Delivery
Buying Electronics in the UK
Popular retailers include:
- Amazon UK*
- Currys
- AO.com
- John Lewis
Best For:
Retailer | Best For |
|---|---|
Amazon | Huge selection |
Currys | In-store demonstrations |
AO.com | Appliances |
John Lewis | Premium service & warranties |
Fashion Shopping in the UK
Popular online retailers include:
- ASOS
- Next
- New Look
- Boohoo
- NET-A-PORTER
Major UK Shopping Centres
- Meadowhall
- Trafford Centre
- Westfield London
- Bluewater
- Bullring
Designer Outlet Shopping
Perfect for expats looking for premium brands at reduced prices.
Popular Outlets
- Bicester Village
- Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet
- East Midlands Designer Outlet
- York Designer Outlet
Furnishing Your Home
Popular choices:
- Ikea
- Next Home
- The Cotswold Company
- Dunelm
Pharmacies & Personal Care
Major providers include:
- Boots
- Superdrug
Services Available:
- Prescriptions
- Travel Vaccinations
- Health Advice
- Beauty Products
- Vitamins and Supplements
Sports Equipment & Outdoor Activities
Major retailers include:
- Sports Direct
- Decathlon
- Halfords
- Evans Cycles
Books & Office Supplies
Popular Options:
- WHSmith
- Waterstones
- Viking Direct
Don't Forget
Local newsagents often sell:
- Newspapers
- Magazines
- Stationery
- Snacks
- Travel Cards
Shopping For Children
Popular retailers:
- Mamas & Papas
- Boots
- Argos
- Kiddies Kingdom
Missing Home?
One of the biggest challenges for expats is finding familiar products from home.
American Products
Look for:
- American Candy
- Cereals
- Sauces
- Snacks
Available from:
- American Fizz
- A Taste of the States
Australian & New Zealand Products
Available through:
- Sanza
British Food Overseas
Useful for returning expats:
- Britstore
International Supermarkets
Many UK cities also have:
- Asian Supermarkets
- Chinese Supermarkets
- Polish Supermarkets
- Indian Supermarkets
- Middle Eastern Supermarkets
Often offering authentic ingredients and imported products.
Top Shopping Tips
- Sign up for supermarket loyalty cards
- Use cashback websites
- Compare prices online
- Take advantage of outlet centres
- Check seasonal sales
- Use retailer apps for discounts
Be careful of:
- Buying expensive electronics without checking warranty coverage
- Signing up for store finance without understanding interest rates
- Assuming all prices include delivery
- Shopping in tourist-heavy locations where prices may be higher
Everything You Need For Life In The UK
Disclaimer
Retailers, pricing and availability change regularly. Some links on this page may be affiliate links, meaning we may receive compensation if you purchase products or services through them. Information is provided for general research purposes only.