So I now know that these two are one and the same. I do remember seeing a
Smart and Final in Oakland. I always wanted to go there but was never able
to.

So for those of you who go there... What do you buy? I don't necessarily
need to buy large quantities of things most of the time. However, once my
husband moves back here I will be needing some things in large quantities.
Amazing how much food one man can consume! Anyway...

We didn't have time to browse every aisle like we wanted to. I saw super
good prices on produce and cheese. And the bread was cheap. 12 pack sodas
were more expensive than the sale price at most groceries. And this week, 2
stores that I know of are giving out free stuff if you buy 3 of the 12 pack
Coke products. We got the skinny cans at Albertson's for free and Vitamin
water at Target. Target was also giving out chips if you bought the skinny
cans but we didn't need the chips.

Anyway... What sorts of things should I look for there? Thanks!

On Sun, 22 Apr 2012 22:49:06 -0700, "Julie Bove"
> wrote:

> So I now know that these two are one and the same. I do remember seeing a
> Smart and Final in Oakland. I always wanted to go there but was never able
> to.
>
> So for those of you who go there... What do you buy? I don't necessarily
> need to buy large quantities of things most of the time. However, once my
> husband moves back here I will be needing some things in large quantities.
> Amazing how much food one man can consume! Anyway...
>
> We didn't have time to browse every aisle like we wanted to. I saw super
> good prices on produce and cheese. And the bread was cheap. 12 pack sodas
> were more expensive than the sale price at most groceries. And this week, 2
> stores that I know of are giving out free stuff if you buy 3 of the 12 pack
> Coke products. We got the skinny cans at Albertson's for free and Vitamin
> water at Target. Target was also giving out chips if you bought the skinny
> cans but we didn't need the chips.
>
> Anyway... What sorts of things should I look for there? Thanks!
>
Just walk down the aisles of the one you will shop at and scope it
out, Julie. They often have a really good price on butter, but
Safeway just got a new brand that's very inexpensive and other brands
are usually on sale. I have 3 S&F/C&C nearby and they're all
different. They do have industrial sized cans of stuff and in certain
stores (I think the ones labeled as Cash & Carry) there are walk in
meat lockers where you can buy whole cuts of cryovac meat. The first
time I ever saw Mayocoba beans, it was a 25 pound bag at Smart &
Final. I like dried beans, but not in that quantity.

--
Food is an important part of a balanced diet.

"sf" > wrote in message
...
> On Sun, 22 Apr 2012 22:49:06 -0700, "Julie Bove"
> > wrote:
>
>> So I now know that these two are one and the same. I do remember seeing
>> a
>> Smart and Final in Oakland. I always wanted to go there but was never
>> able
>> to.
>>
>> So for those of you who go there... What do you buy? I don't
>> necessarily
>> need to buy large quantities of things most of the time. However, once
>> my
>> husband moves back here I will be needing some things in large
>> quantities.
>> Amazing how much food one man can consume! Anyway...
>>
>> We didn't have time to browse every aisle like we wanted to. I saw super
>> good prices on produce and cheese. And the bread was cheap. 12 pack
>> sodas
>> were more expensive than the sale price at most groceries. And this
>> week, 2
>> stores that I know of are giving out free stuff if you buy 3 of the 12
>> pack
>> Coke products. We got the skinny cans at Albertson's for free and
>> Vitamin
>> water at Target. Target was also giving out chips if you bought the
>> skinny
>> cans but we didn't need the chips.
>>
>> Anyway... What sorts of things should I look for there? Thanks!
>>
> Just walk down the aisles of the one you will shop at and scope it
> out, Julie. They often have a really good price on butter, but
> Safeway just got a new brand that's very inexpensive and other brands
> are usually on sale. I have 3 S&F/C&C nearby and they're all
> different. They do have industrial sized cans of stuff and in certain
> stores (I think the ones labeled as Cash & Carry) there are walk in
> meat lockers where you can buy whole cuts of cryovac meat. The first
> time I ever saw Mayocoba beans, it was a 25 pound bag at Smart &
> Final. I like dried beans, but not in that quantity.

I didn't realize they were all different! Here, Safeway is one of the
highest priced places to shop. I rarely go there. Only if I just need a
couple of things and am by one or if they have a sale on something. They do
have good sale prices sometimes.

In article >,
"Julie Bove" > wrote:

> So I now know that these two are one and the same. I do remember seeing a
> Smart and Final in Oakland. I always wanted to go there but was never able
> to.
>
> So for those of you who go there... What do you buy? I don't necessarily
> need to buy large quantities of things most of the time. However, once my
> husband moves back here I will be needing some things in large quantities.
> Amazing how much food one man can consume! Anyway...
>
> We didn't have time to browse every aisle like we wanted to. I saw super
> good prices on produce and cheese. And the bread was cheap. 12 pack sodas
> were more expensive than the sale price at most groceries. And this week, 2
> stores that I know of are giving out free stuff if you buy 3 of the 12 pack
> Coke products. We got the skinny cans at Albertson's for free and Vitamin
> water at Target. Target was also giving out chips if you bought the skinny
> cans but we didn't need the chips.
>
> Anyway... What sorts of things should I look for there? Thanks!

I get a few things at that store - their sugar and flour are often
better prices than the local grocery stores so if I run out between
sales that's where I go. Butter is also a good price. Their real
vanilla extract is usually priced better than Costco's version and I
like the flavor better as well.

They sell "nicer" toothpicks. Sometimes we use them for appetizers for
parties and that's the local place I can find them. They also have a
pretty good paper goods selection for parties as well. Inexpensive
tablecloths in a variety of colors, nicer plastic plates, inexpensive
trays etc to take to a party and not have to worry about breakage or if
it doesn't make it home. They also sell a variety of take out type
containers that have come in handy on occasion - like the year my son
used little chinese take out boxes to put candy in for this class
Valentines day party.

marcella

On Mon, 23 Apr 2012 01:34:53 -0700, "Julie Bove"
> wrote:

>
> "sf" > wrote in message
> ...
> >>
> >> Anyway... What sorts of things should I look for there? Thanks!
> >>
> > Just walk down the aisles of the one you will shop at and scope it
> > out, Julie. They often have a really good price on butter, but
> > Safeway just got a new brand that's very inexpensive and other brands
> > are usually on sale. I have 3 S&F/C&C nearby and they're all
> > different. They do have industrial sized cans of stuff and in certain
> > stores (I think the ones labeled as Cash & Carry) there are walk in
> > meat lockers where you can buy whole cuts of cryovac meat. The first
> > time I ever saw Mayocoba beans, it was a 25 pound bag at Smart &
> > Final. I like dried beans, but not in that quantity.
>
> I didn't realize they were all different!

I haven't researched it, but that's what I've noticed here. They
could be like Grocery Outlet where they are individual franchises.

> Here, Safeway is one of the
> highest priced places to shop. I rarely go there. Only if I just need a
> couple of things and am by one or if they have a sale on something. They do
> have good sale prices sometimes.
>
Safeway rotates sale items and once you get in sync with them, your
grocery bill is pretty much normal. I supposedly saved a third of the
bill the last time I shopped at Safeway and that was only shopping in
store sales, I don't coupon shop because coupons are for the more
expensive items and the savings isn't enough to entice me. To be
honest, I don't think going somewhere like Smart & Final is a big
savings or any savings overall. I can always find one or two items
that make me go "wow" at Smart & Final/Cash & Carry, but the final
bill is just as big as anywhere else and I can always find a "wow"
sale on some random item elsewhere too.

--
Food is an important part of a balanced diet.

On Mon, 23 Apr 2012 07:52:25 -0700, Marcella Peek
> wrote:

> I get a few things at that store - their sugar and flour are often
> better prices than the local grocery stores so if I run out between
> sales that's where I go. Butter is also a good price. Their real
> vanilla extract is usually priced better than Costco's version and I
> like the flavor better as well.
>
> They sell "nicer" toothpicks. Sometimes we use them for appetizers for
> parties and that's the local place I can find them. They also have a
> pretty good paper goods selection for parties as well. Inexpensive
> tablecloths in a variety of colors, nicer plastic plates, inexpensive
> trays etc to take to a party and not have to worry about breakage or if
> it doesn't make it home. They also sell a variety of take out type
> containers that have come in handy on occasion - like the year my son
> used little chinese take out boxes to put candy in for this class
> Valentines day party.

Along with decent prices in their limited selection of what we'd call
party goods, they have better prices in their cleaning/cleaner section
too.

--
Food is an important part of a balanced diet.

On Mon, 23 Apr 2012 09:31:39 -0700, sf > wrote:

>On Mon, 23 Apr 2012 01:34:53 -0700, "Julie Bove"
> wrote:
>
>>
>> "sf" > wrote in message
>> ...
>> >>
>> >> Anyway... What sorts of things should I look for there? Thanks!
>> >>
>> > Just walk down the aisles of the one you will shop at and scope it
>> > out, Julie. They often have a really good price on butter, but
>> > Safeway just got a new brand that's very inexpensive and other brands
>> > are usually on sale. I have 3 S&F/C&C nearby and they're all
>> > different. They do have industrial sized cans of stuff and in certain
>> > stores (I think the ones labeled as Cash & Carry) there are walk in
>> > meat lockers where you can buy whole cuts of cryovac meat. The first
>> > time I ever saw Mayocoba beans, it was a 25 pound bag at Smart &
>> > Final. I like dried beans, but not in that quantity.
>>
>> I didn't realize they were all different!
>
>I haven't researched it, but that's what I've noticed here. They
>could be like Grocery Outlet where they are individual franchises.
>
>> Here, Safeway is one of the
>> highest priced places to shop. I rarely go there. Only if I just need a
>> couple of things and am by one or if they have a sale on something. They do
>> have good sale prices sometimes.
>>
>Safeway rotates sale items and once you get in sync with them, your
>grocery bill is pretty much normal. I supposedly saved a third of the
>bill the last time I shopped at Safeway and that was only shopping in
>store sales, I don't coupon shop because coupons are for the more
>expensive items and the savings isn't enough to entice me. To be
>honest, I don't think going somewhere like Smart & Final is a big
>savings or any savings overall. I can always find one or two items
>that make me go "wow" at Smart & Final/Cash & Carry, but the final
>bill is just as big as anywhere else and I can always find a "wow"
>sale on some random item elsewhere too.

Cash and Carry has professionally printed , multi-page flyers
(several) in a stand just inside the door. One flyer is for meats and
produce, another for canned goods, frozen foods, another for paper
goods ( or something like that) Each flyer sale price is for a month
and as far as I can tell for all the Cash and Carry stores. I don't
have a flyer in the house right now so I can't check. Anyway, these
are substantial flyers, in color, on sturdy paper. I wouldn't think
such items would be printed for just one store. If you haven't found
the flyers yet, look for them because they highlight really good
deals.
Janet US

"Julie Bove" wrote in message ...


"sf" > wrote in message
...
> On Sun, 22 Apr 2012 22:49:06 -0700, "Julie Bove"
> > wrote:
>
>> So I now know that these two are one and the same. I do remember seeing
>> a
>> Smart and Final in Oakland. I always wanted to go there but was never
>> able
>> to.
>>
>> So for those of you who go there... What do you buy? I don't
>> necessarily
>> need to buy large quantities of things most of the time. However, once
>> my
>> husband moves back here I will be needing some things in large
>> quantities.
>> Amazing how much food one man can consume! Anyway...
>>
>> We didn't have time to browse every aisle like we wanted to. I saw super
>> good prices on produce and cheese. And the bread was cheap. 12 pack
>> sodas
>> were more expensive than the sale price at most groceries. And this
>> week, 2
>> stores that I know of are giving out free stuff if you buy 3 of the 12
>> pack
>> Coke products. We got the skinny cans at Albertson's for free and
>> Vitamin
>> water at Target. Target was also giving out chips if you bought the
>> skinny
>> cans but we didn't need the chips.
>>
>> Anyway... What sorts of things should I look for there? Thanks!
>>
> Just walk down the aisles of the one you will shop at and scope it
> out, Julie. They often have a really good price on butter, but
> Safeway just got a new brand that's very inexpensive and other brands
> are usually on sale. I have 3 S&F/C&C nearby and they're all
> different. They do have industrial sized cans of stuff and in certain
> stores (I think the ones labeled as Cash & Carry) there are walk in
> meat lockers where you can buy whole cuts of cryovac meat. The first
> time I ever saw Mayocoba beans, it was a 25 pound bag at Smart &
> Final. I like dried beans, but not in that quantity.

I didn't realize they were all different! Here, Safeway is one of the
highest priced places to shop. I rarely go there. Only if I just need a
couple of things and am by one or if they have a sale on something. They do
have good sale prices sometimes.
>
>
I think Safeway's exorbitant prices are pretty uniform everywhere. Their
service is pretty marginal. Everyone frowns, unlike Trader Joes.

"Marcella Peek" > wrote in message
...
> In article >,
> "Julie Bove" > wrote:
>
>> So I now know that these two are one and the same. I do remember seeing
>> a
>> Smart and Final in Oakland. I always wanted to go there but was never
>> able
>> to.
>>
>> So for those of you who go there... What do you buy? I don't
>> necessarily
>> need to buy large quantities of things most of the time. However, once
>> my
>> husband moves back here I will be needing some things in large
>> quantities.
>> Amazing how much food one man can consume! Anyway...
>>
>> We didn't have time to browse every aisle like we wanted to. I saw super
>> good prices on produce and cheese. And the bread was cheap. 12 pack
>> sodas
>> were more expensive than the sale price at most groceries. And this
>> week, 2
>> stores that I know of are giving out free stuff if you buy 3 of the 12
>> pack
>> Coke products. We got the skinny cans at Albertson's for free and
>> Vitamin
>> water at Target. Target was also giving out chips if you bought the
>> skinny
>> cans but we didn't need the chips.
>>
>> Anyway... What sorts of things should I look for there? Thanks!
>
> I get a few things at that store - their sugar and flour are often
> better prices than the local grocery stores so if I run out between
> sales that's where I go. Butter is also a good price. Their real
> vanilla extract is usually priced better than Costco's version and I
> like the flavor better as well.
>
> They sell "nicer" toothpicks. Sometimes we use them for appetizers for
> parties and that's the local place I can find them. They also have a
> pretty good paper goods selection for parties as well. Inexpensive
> tablecloths in a variety of colors, nicer plastic plates, inexpensive
> trays etc to take to a party and not have to worry about breakage or if
> it doesn't make it home. They also sell a variety of take out type
> containers that have come in handy on occasion - like the year my son
> used little chinese take out boxes to put candy in for this class
> Valentines day party.
>
> marcella

Thanks!

"Janet Bostwick" > wrote in message
...
> On Mon, 23 Apr 2012 09:31:39 -0700, sf > wrote:
>
>>On Mon, 23 Apr 2012 01:34:53 -0700, "Julie Bove"
> wrote:
>>
>>>
>>> "sf" > wrote in message
>>> ...
>>> >>
>>> >> Anyway... What sorts of things should I look for there? Thanks!
>>> >>
>>> > Just walk down the aisles of the one you will shop at and scope it
>>> > out, Julie. They often have a really good price on butter, but
>>> > Safeway just got a new brand that's very inexpensive and other brands
>>> > are usually on sale. I have 3 S&F/C&C nearby and they're all
>>> > different. They do have industrial sized cans of stuff and in certain
>>> > stores (I think the ones labeled as Cash & Carry) there are walk in
>>> > meat lockers where you can buy whole cuts of cryovac meat. The first
>>> > time I ever saw Mayocoba beans, it was a 25 pound bag at Smart &
>>> > Final. I like dried beans, but not in that quantity.
>>>
>>> I didn't realize they were all different!
>>
>>I haven't researched it, but that's what I've noticed here. They
>>could be like Grocery Outlet where they are individual franchises.
>>
>>> Here, Safeway is one of the
>>> highest priced places to shop. I rarely go there. Only if I just need
>>> a
>>> couple of things and am by one or if they have a sale on something.
>>> They do
>>> have good sale prices sometimes.
>>>
>>Safeway rotates sale items and once you get in sync with them, your
>>grocery bill is pretty much normal. I supposedly saved a third of the
>>bill the last time I shopped at Safeway and that was only shopping in
>>store sales, I don't coupon shop because coupons are for the more
>>expensive items and the savings isn't enough to entice me. To be
>>honest, I don't think going somewhere like Smart & Final is a big
>>savings or any savings overall. I can always find one or two items
>>that make me go "wow" at Smart & Final/Cash & Carry, but the final
>>bill is just as big as anywhere else and I can always find a "wow"
>>sale on some random item elsewhere too.
>
> Cash and Carry has professionally printed , multi-page flyers
> (several) in a stand just inside the door. One flyer is for meats and
> produce, another for canned goods, frozen foods, another for paper
> goods ( or something like that) Each flyer sale price is for a month
> and as far as I can tell for all the Cash and Carry stores. I don't
> have a flyer in the house right now so I can't check. Anyway, these
> are substantial flyers, in color, on sturdy paper. I wouldn't think
> such items would be printed for just one store. If you haven't found
> the flyers yet, look for them because they highlight really good
> deals.
> Janet US

Thanks! I found that info online. Looks like each store has its own sales.

On Mon, 23 Apr 2012 14:09:22 -0700, "Kent" >
wrote:

> I think Safeway's exorbitant prices are pretty uniform everywhere.

Agreed.

> Their service is pretty marginal. Everyone frowns, unlike Trader Joes.
>
I have to disagree on both of those points. I think we consider
Safeway to be sub par service to Trader Joe's because we see fewer
people stocking shelves at Safeway and therefore have fewer people in
the aisles to ask for assistance. The smile factor is the same as is
the style of service once you find someone to help... and I've never
seen a produce employee at TJ's crack open anything to offer tastes on
the spur of the moment.


--
Food is an important part of a balanced diet.

"sf" > wrote in message
...
> On Mon, 23 Apr 2012 14:09:22 -0700, "Kent" >
> wrote:
>
>> I think Safeway's exorbitant prices are pretty uniform everywhere.
>
> Agreed.
>
>> Their service is pretty marginal. Everyone frowns, unlike Trader Joes.
>>
> I have to disagree on both of those points. I think we consider
> Safeway to be sub par service to Trader Joe's because we see fewer
> people stocking shelves at Safeway and therefore have fewer people in
> the aisles to ask for assistance. The smile factor is the same as is
> the style of service once you find someone to help... and I've never
> seen a produce employee at TJ's crack open anything to offer tastes on
> the spur of the moment.
>
>
At our Safeway all the employees frown all the time, I think even at lunch
and when they go to the restroom. That is consistent with the low service
rating Safeway received in Consumer Reports recently. I've never been
offered a produce taste anywhere. In the Moraga Produce market I just
mentioned, they have sample plates all around.

Kent

sf wrote:

> > Their service is pretty marginal. Everyone frowns, unlike Trader Joes.
> >
> I have to disagree on both of those points. I think we consider
> Safeway to be sub par service to Trader Joe's because we see fewer
> people stocking shelves at Safeway and therefore have fewer people in
> the aisles to ask for assistance. The smile factor is the same as is
> the style of service once you find someone to help... and I've never
> seen a produce employee at TJ's crack open anything to offer tastes on
> the spur of the moment.

Where I live, some Safeways have good service and some don't.

"sf" > wrote in message
...
> On Mon, 23 Apr 2012 14:09:22 -0700, "Kent" >
> wrote:
>
>> I think Safeway's exorbitant prices are pretty uniform everywhere.
>
> Agreed.
>
>> Their service is pretty marginal. Everyone frowns, unlike Trader Joes.
>>
> I have to disagree on both of those points. I think we consider
> Safeway to be sub par service to Trader Joe's because we see fewer
> people stocking shelves at Safeway and therefore have fewer people in
> the aisles to ask for assistance. The smile factor is the same as is
> the style of service once you find someone to help... and I've never
> seen a produce employee at TJ's crack open anything to offer tastes on
> the spur of the moment.

I *hate* the TJs here. Yes the clerks are in a good mood but they sell
spoiled produce. And if they do get an item that I like, like the
vegetarian pizzas, they never get it again.

I've never seen anyone at Safeway offer a taste of something except for the
day they were having some kind of party and they were giving out samples all
over. Ours has some really nice clerks. We know some of them personally.
But there is one really oddball one. I try to avoid his line.

"Mark Thorson" > wrote in message
...
> Julie Bove wrote:
>>
>> So for those of you who go there... What do you buy? I don't
>> necessarily
>
> I buy large clear plastic disposable cups,
> matching dome-top lids, and coffee filters
> for my Drosophila cultures. I'm starting
> another dozen of them right now. I get the
> bananas at Trader Joe's and the yeast and
> cream of tartar at Target.

Thanks.

Julie Bove wrote:
>
> So for those of you who go there... What do you buy? I don't necessarily

I buy large clear plastic disposable cups,
matching dome-top lids, and coffee filters
for my Drosophila cultures. I'm starting
another dozen of them right now. I get the
bananas at Trader Joe's and the yeast and
cream of tartar at Target.

On Mon, 23 Apr 2012 17:20:30 -0700, "Kent" >
wrote:

> At our Safeway all the employees frown all the time, I think even at lunch
> and when they go to the restroom.

Maybe the sourpuss attitude is just your Safeway, maybe it's a
reflection of the customer's attitude.

> That is consistent with the low service
> rating Safeway received in Consumer Reports recently.

Maybe they forgot to read and reflect the report. I can only say my
experience is different from yours and I have several Safeway's to
choose from.

> I've never been
> offered a produce taste anywhere. In the Moraga Produce market I just
> mentioned, they have sample plates all around.

I'm not talking about sample plates, I'm talking about good old
fashioned open a box or cut whatever it is that's being discussed with
the customer and give a taste. The produce person at the big Safeway
nearest to me does that.... and sells a lot more because of it. I
also noticed that their fish counter, the one that mimics an old
fashioned fish monger, responded to something I said a few weeks ago.
I told the counter person that I wanted to buy wild caught,
sustainable (North American if possible) fish and that's what all of
them point out now w/o me asking - it's also clearly noted as such on
the tags.

--
Food is an important part of a balanced diet.

In article >, "Julie Bove" >
wrote:

> So I now know that these two are one and the same. I do remember seeing a
> Smart and Final in Oakland. I always wanted to go there but was never able
> to.
>
> So for those of you who go there... What do you buy? I don't necessarily
> need to buy large quantities of things most of the time. However, once my
> husband moves back here I will be needing some things in large quantities.
> Amazing how much food one man can consume! Anyway...
>
> We didn't have time to browse every aisle like we wanted to. I saw super
> good prices on produce and cheese. And the bread was cheap. 12 pack sodas
> were more expensive than the sale price at most groceries. And this week, 2
> stores that I know of are giving out free stuff if you buy 3 of the 12 pack
> Coke products. We got the skinny cans at Albertson's for free and Vitamin
> water at Target. Target was also giving out chips if you bought the skinny
> cans but we didn't need the chips.
>
> Anyway... What sorts of things should I look for there? Thanks!

I know it isn't always the case that it's cheapest, but why wouldn't you shop at
the base commissary?

On Apr 23, 5:47*pm, "Julie Bove" > wrote:
> "sf" > wrote in message
>
> ...
>
>
>
>
>
> > On Mon, 23 Apr 2012 14:09:22 -0700, "Kent" >
> > wrote:
>
> >> I think Safeway's exorbitant prices are pretty uniform everywhere.
>
> > Agreed.
>
> >> Their service is pretty marginal. Everyone frowns, unlike Trader Joes.
>
> > I have to disagree on both of those points. *I think we consider
> > Safeway to be sub par service to Trader Joe's because we see fewer
> > people stocking shelves at Safeway and therefore have fewer people in
> > the aisles to ask for assistance. *The smile factor is the same as is
> > the style of service once you find someone to help... and I've never
> > seen a produce employee at TJ's crack open anything to offer tastes on
> > the spur of the moment.
>
> I *hate* the TJs here. *Yes the clerks are in a good mood but they sell
> spoiled produce.

Not counting TJ's brand name bananas, I am leery of everything but
their bagged greens, except for the rare occasions that they have
brussels sprouts on the stalk. Their broccoli in particular tends to
be all sinewy stalk.

> And if they do get an item that I like, like the
> vegetarian pizzas, they never get it again.

Some things they carry for years, but much is hit or miss. Coffee is
the thing that they discontinue most annoyingly for us. But they used
to have Hanover pretzels and King Arthur Flour.

>
> I've never seen anyone at Safeway offer a taste of something except for the
> day they were having some kind of party and they were giving out samples all
> over. *Ours has some really nice clerks. *We know some of them personally.
> But there is one really oddball one. *I try to avoid his line.

On Mon, 23 Apr 2012 17:47:49 -0700, "Julie Bove"
> wrote:

> I *hate* the TJs here. Yes the clerks are in a good mood but they sell
> spoiled produce.

My TJ's have produce that's fine, but I avoid their meat like the
plague.



--
Food is an important part of a balanced diet.

"sf" > wrote in message
...
> On Mon, 23 Apr 2012 17:47:49 -0700, "Julie Bove"
> > wrote:
>
>> I *hate* the TJs here. Yes the clerks are in a good mood but they sell
>> spoiled produce.
>
> My TJ's have produce that's fine, but I avoid their meat like the
> plague.

They've had tainted beef far too many times to suit me. I don't know about
the rest of their meats.

On Mon, 23 Apr 2012 16:48:55 -0800 in rec.food.cooking, Mark Thorson
> wrote,
>Julie Bove wrote:
>>
>> So for those of you who go there... What do you buy? I don't necessarily
>
>I buy large clear plastic disposable cups,
>matching dome-top lids, and coffee filters
>for my Drosophila cultures.

I buy flypaper strips from the 99cent store for my Drosophila.

On Apr 22, 10:49*pm, "Julie Bove" > wrote:
> So I now know that these two are one and the same. *I do remember seeing aSmart and FinalinOakland. *I always wanted to go there but was never able
> to.
>
> So for those of you who go there... *What do you buy? *I don't necessarilyneed to buy large quantities of things most of the time. *However, once myhusband moves back here I will be needing some thingsinlarge quantities.Amazing how much food one man can consume! *Anyway...
>
> We didn't have time to browse every aisle like we wanted to. *I saw super
> good prices on produce and cheese. *And the bread was cheap. *12 pack sodas
> were more expensive than the sale price at most groceries. *And this week, 2stores that I know of are giving out free stuff if you buy 3 of the 12 packCoke products. *We got the skinny cans at Albertson's for free and Vitaminwater at Target. *Target was also giving out chips if you bought the skinny
> cans but we didn't need the chips.
>
> Anyway... *What sorts of things should I look for there? *Thanks!

I like to buy disposable gloves as I use them a lot. I also buy cheap
paper plates ad plastic ware as I travel a lot.

At Christmas time, I make smoked salmon dip, and give it to all my
coworkers. I will buy the cream cheese, liquid smoke, and the
containers there. I have to get the salmon at costco. I use about 30
lbs of cream cheese, so it helps to buy it there.

I also bought a box of waxed sheets that are like sheets of waxed
paper. There are 1000 sheets to a box, so it is much cheaper than
buying rolls of the regular stuff.

Sometimes, I will buy a bag of frozen prawns, a bag of sliced almonds,
or something else that I know I can use.

The nice thing is you can get supplies and larger items without having
to deal with costco's parking and long lines. And you don't need a
membership. I usually go once every couple months to pick up the
supplies I need.

On Apr 23, 1:34*am, "Julie Bove" > wrote:
> "sf" > wroteinmessage
>
> ...
>
>
>
> > On Sun, 22 Apr 2012 22:49:06 -0700, "Julie Bove"
> > > wrote:
>
> >> So I now know that these two are one and the same. *I do remember seeing
> >> a>> Smart and FinalinOakland. *I always wanted to go there but was never
> >> able
> >> to.
>
> >> So for those of you who go there... *What do you buy? *I don't
> >> necessarily>> need to buy large quantities of things most of the time. *However, once
> >> my>> husband moves back here I will be needing some thingsinlarge
> >> quantities.>> Amazing how much food one man can consume! *Anyway...
>
> >> We didn't have time to browse every aisle like we wanted to. *I saw super
> >> good prices on produce and cheese. *And the bread was cheap. *12 pack
> >> sodas
> >> were more expensive than the sale price at most groceries. *And this
> >> week, 2>> stores that I know of are giving out free stuff if you buy 3 of the 12
> >> pack>> Coke products. *We got the skinny cans at Albertson's for free and>> Vitamin>> water at Target. *Target was also giving out chips if you bought the>> skinny
> >> cans but we didn't need the chips.
>
> >> Anyway... *What sorts of things should I look for there? *Thanks!
>
> > Just walk down the aisles of the one you will shop at and scope it> out, Julie.*Theyoften have a really good price on butter, but> Safeway just got a new brand that's veryinexpensive and other brands> are usually on sale. *I have 3 S&F/C&C nearby andthey're all> different.*Theydo haveindustrial sized cans of stuff andincertain> stores (I think the ones labeled as Cash & Carry) there are walkin
> > meat lockers where you can buy whole cuts of cryovac meat. *The first> time I ever saw Mayocoba beans, it was a 25pound bag at Smart &> Final. *I like dried beans, but notinthat quantity.
>
> I didn't realizetheywere all different! *Here, Safeway is one of the
> highest priced places to shop. *I rarely go there. *Only if I just need acouple of things and am by one or iftheyhave a sale on something.*Theydo
> have good sale prices sometimes.

I have found that Safeway has a reputation for higher prices, but it
doesn't hold true with a lot of things. I went to an albertsons one
time, and I needed 5 items. And while Albertsons has a reputation for
cheap, all 5 items were considerably higher than Safeway's regular
prices.

I have also found that Fred Meyer has better prices on Seafood, but
many other items are not cheaper. And the variety is not as good. QFC
is consistently higher on everything, so I don't go there anymore.
Winco has good prices, but they don't have some of the items I need.
And I will not buy meat or seafood there. I learned my lesson. Same
with Walmart. Boxed and canned items are good and usually cheaper. But
I stick with that. No meat, seafood, or deli items.

On Apr 23, 10:41*am, Janet Bostwick > wrote:
> On Mon, 23 Apr 2012 09:31:39 -0700, sf > wrote:
> >On Mon, 23 Apr 2012 01:34:53 -0700, "Julie Bove"
> > wrote:
>
> >> "sf" > wroteinmessage
> . ..
>
> >> >> Anyway... *What sorts of things should I look for there? *Thanks!
>
> >> > Just walk down the aisles of the one you will shop at and scope it>> > out, Julie.*Theyoften have a really good price on butter, but>> > Safeway just got a new brand that's veryinexpensive and other brands>> > are usually on sale. *I have 3 S&F/C&C nearby andthey're all>> > different.*Theydo haveindustrial sized cans of stuff andincertain>> > stores (I think the ones labeled as Cash & Carry) there are walkin
> >> > meat lockers where you can buy whole cuts of cryovac meat. *The first>> > time I ever saw Mayocoba beans, it was a 25pound bag at Smart &>> > Final. *I like dried beans, but notinthat quantity.
>
> >> I didn't realizetheywere all different!
>
> >I haven't researched it, but that's what I've noticed here.*They>could be like Grocery Outlet wheretheyareindividual franchises.
>
> >> Here, Safeway is one of the
> >> highest priced places to shop. *I rarely go there. *Only if I just need a>> couple of things and am by one or iftheyhave a sale on something.*Theydo
> >> have good sale prices sometimes.
>
> >Safeway rotates sale items and once you getinsync with them, your
> >grocery bill is pretty much normal. *I supposedly saved a third of the>bill the last time I shopped at Safeway and that was only shoppingin
> >store sales, I don't coupon shop because coupons are for the more>expensive items and the savings isn't enough to entice me. *To be>honest, I don't think going somewhere like Smart & Final is a big>savings or any savings overall. *I can always find one or two items>that make me go "wow" at Smart & Final/Cash & Carry, but the final>bill is just as big as anywhere else and I can always find a "wow"
> >sale on some random item elsewhere too.
>
> Cash and Carry has professionally printed , multi-page flyers(several)ina stand justinside the door. *One flyer is for meats and
> produce, another for canned goods, frozen foods, another for papergoods ( or something like that) *Each flyer sale price is for a month
> and as far as I can tell for all the Cash and Carry stores. *I don'thave a flyerinthe house right now so I can't check. Anyway, theseare substantial flyers,incolor, on sturdy paper. * I wouldn't thinksuch items would be printed for just one store. *If you haven't foundthe flyers yet, look for them becausetheyhighlight really good
> deals.
> Janet US

They have a website too.

On Apr 23, 2:09*pm, "Kent" > wrote:
> "Julie Bove" ...
> "sf" > wroteinmessage
>
> ...
>
>
>
> > On Sun, 22 Apr 2012 22:49:06 -0700, "Julie Bove"
> > > wrote:
>
> >> So I now know that these two are one and the same. *I do remember seeing
> >> a>> Smart and FinalinOakland. *I always wanted to go there but was never
> >> able
> >> to.
>
> >> So for those of you who go there... *What do you buy? *I don't
> >> necessarily>> need to buy large quantities of things most of the time. *However, once
> >> my>> husband moves back here I will be needing some thingsinlarge
> >> quantities.>> Amazing how much food one man can consume! *Anyway...
>
> >> We didn't have time to browse every aisle like we wanted to. *I saw super
> >> good prices on produce and cheese. *And the bread was cheap. *12 pack
> >> sodas
> >> were more expensive than the sale price at most groceries. *And this
> >> week, 2>> stores that I know of are giving out free stuff if you buy 3 of the 12
> >> pack>> Coke products. *We got the skinny cans at Albertson's for free and>> Vitamin>> water at Target. *Target was also giving out chips if you bought the>> skinny
> >> cans but we didn't need the chips.
>
> >> Anyway... *What sorts of things should I look for there? *Thanks!
>
> > Just walk down the aisles of the one you will shop at and scope it> out, Julie.*Theyoften have a really good price on butter, but> Safeway just got a new brand that's veryinexpensive and other brands> are usually on sale. *I have 3 S&F/C&C nearby andthey're all> different.*Theydo haveindustrial sized cans of stuff andincertain> stores (I think the ones labeled as Cash & Carry) there are walkin
> > meat lockers where you can buy whole cuts of cryovac meat. *The first> time I ever saw Mayocoba beans, it was a 25pound bag at Smart &> Final. *I like dried beans, but notinthat quantity.
>
> I didn't realizetheywere all different! *Here, Safeway is one of the
> highest priced places to shop. *I rarely go there. *Only if I just need acouple of things and am by one or iftheyhave a sale on something.*Theydo
> have good sale prices sometimes.
>
> I think Safeway's exorbitant prices are pretty uniform everywhere. *Theirservice is pretty marginal. Everyone frowns, unlike Trader Joes.

Perhaps you should fill out a comment card. Safeway has a very big
service program, and it includes being friendly, greeting with a
smile, etc. Your description doesn't fit with my Safeway, or the ones
i go to when I travel.

I hated Trader Joes. The people were nice, yes, but everything was
weird. I wanted to make a salad, and I could not find a normal Ranch
dressing. There was some light version, but that was the only one.
Most stores have multiple brands to choose from. This store had mostly
froo froo stuff, and nothing normal. We ended up going to another
grocery to find our dinner. (We were traveling, so buying food to go
back to a hotel room).

On Apr 23, 5:20*pm, "Kent" > wrote:
> "sf" > wroteinmessage
>
> ...
>
> > On Mon, 23 Apr 2012 14:09:22 -0700, "Kent" >
> > wrote:
>
> >> I think Safeway's exorbitant prices are pretty uniform everywhere.
>
> > Agreed.
>
> >> Their service is pretty marginal. Everyone frowns, unlike Trader Joes.
>
> > I have to disagree on both of those points. *I think we consider
> > Safeway to be sub par service to Trader Joe's because we see fewer> people stocking shelves at Safeway and therefore have fewer peoplein
> > the aisles to ask for assistance. *The smile factor is the same as is> the style of service once you find someone to help... and I've never> seen a produce employee at TJ's crack open anything to offer tastes on
> > the spur of the moment.
>
> At our Safeway all the employees frown all the time, I think even at lunchand whentheygo to the restroom. That is consistent with the low servicerating Safeway receivedinConsumer Reports recently. I've never beenoffered a produce taste anywhere.Inthe Moraga Produce market I justmentioned,theyhave sample plates all around.
>
> Kent

It is part of the customer service program. If you ask the produce
clerk if the oranges (or whatever) is sweet, they are required to
offer you a sample. And there are mystery shoppers to test this.
Stores with low scores end up receiving a lot of visits from district
managers. Service is a very big deal.

On Apr 23, 5:47*pm, "Julie Bove" > wrote:
> "sf" > wroteinmessage
>
> ...
>
>
>
> > On Mon, 23 Apr 2012 14:09:22 -0700, "Kent" >
> > wrote:
>
> >> I think Safeway's exorbitant prices are pretty uniform everywhere.
>
> > Agreed.
>
> >> Their service is pretty marginal. Everyone frowns, unlike Trader Joes.
>
> > I have to disagree on both of those points. *I think we consider
> > Safeway to be sub par service to Trader Joe's because we see fewer> people stocking shelves at Safeway and therefore have fewer peoplein
> > the aisles to ask for assistance. *The smile factor is the same as is> the style of service once you find someone to help... and I've never> seen a produce employee at TJ's crack open anything to offer tastes on
> > the spur of the moment.
>
> I *hate* the TJs here. *Yes the clerks areina good mood buttheysellspoiled produce. *And iftheydo get an item that I like, like thevegetarian pizzas,theynever get it again.
>
> I've never seen anyone at Safeway offer a taste of something except for thedaytheywere having some kind of party andtheywere giving out samples all
> over. *Ours has some really nice clerks. *We know some of them personally.But there is one really oddball one. *I try to avoid his line.

You need to ask a question. They are not supposed to go around just
handing out samples. But they are required to respond to your
questions with offers of samples. Is it sweet? Is it is spicy? Things
like that. Produce, deli, bakery, etc. Obviously not a raw piece of
steak or something that would be unsafe. If the question can be
answered with a sample, then a sample should be offered.

wrote:
> On Apr 23, 5:47 pm, "Julie Bove" > wrote:
>> "sf" > wroteinmessage
>>
>> ...
>>
>>
>>
>>> On Mon, 23 Apr 2012 14:09:22 -0700, "Kent" >
>>> wrote:
>>
>>>> I think Safeway's exorbitant prices are pretty uniform everywhere.
>>
>>> Agreed.
>>
>>>> Their service is pretty marginal. Everyone frowns, unlike Trader
>>>> Joes.
>>
>>> I have to disagree on both of those points. I think we consider
>>> Safeway to be sub par service to Trader Joe's because we see fewer>
>>> people stocking shelves at Safeway and therefore have fewer
>>> peoplein
>>> the aisles to ask for assistance. The smile factor is the same as
>>> is> the style of service once you find someone to help... and I've
>>> never> seen a produce employee at TJ's crack open anything to offer
>>> tastes on the spur of the moment.
>>
>> I *hate* the TJs here. Yes the clerks areina good mood
>> buttheysellspoiled produce. And iftheydo get an item that I like,
>> like thevegetarian pizzas,theynever get it again.
>>
>> I've never seen anyone at Safeway offer a taste of something except
>> for thedaytheywere having some kind of party andtheywere giving out
>> samples all
>> over. Ours has some really nice clerks. We know some of them
>> personally.But there is one really oddball one. I try to avoid his
>> line.
>
> You need to ask a question. They are not supposed to go around just
> handing out samples. But they are required to respond to your
> questions with offers of samples. Is it sweet? Is it is spicy? Things
> like that. Produce, deli, bakery, etc. Obviously not a raw piece of
> steak or something that would be unsafe. If the question can be
> answered with a sample, then a sample should be offered.

I can't think of a thing I would sample. I don't usually buy produce there.
I never buy deli stuff, or bakery.

On Tue, 24 Apr 2012 02:07:41 -0700 (PDT), "
> wrote:

>snip
And while Albertsons has a reputation for
>cheap, all 5 items were considerably higher than Safeway's regular
>prices.
>
snip
Not on my planet. Albertsons is known for out-pricing the competition
around here. . .I thought that was universal.
Janet US

"Janet Bostwick" > wrote in message
...
> On Tue, 24 Apr 2012 02:07:41 -0700 (PDT), "
> > wrote:
>
>>snip
> And while Albertsons has a reputation for
>>cheap, all 5 items were considerably higher than Safeway's regular
>>prices.
>>
> snip
> Not on my planet. Albertsons is known for out-pricing the competition
> around here. . .I thought that was universal.

Nope. Winco almost always beats Albertsons.

On Tue, 24 Apr 2012 02:16:39 -0700 (PDT), "
> wrote:

>
> It is part of the customer service program. If you ask the produce
> clerk if the oranges (or whatever) is sweet, they are required to
> offer you a sample. And there are mystery shoppers to test this.
> Stores with low scores end up receiving a lot of visits from district
> managers. Service is a very big deal.

Thank you, Megan. You should know!

--
Food is an important part of a balanced diet.

On Mon, 23 Apr 2012 22:17:01 -0700 (PDT), spamtrap1888
> wrote:
>
> Some things they carry for years, but much is hit or miss. Coffee is
> the thing that they discontinue most annoyingly for us. But they used
> to have Hanover pretzels and King Arthur Flour.
>
That's what happens when people treat TJ's like a full service grocery
store. DON'T and that will solve any and all problems. It seems like
the people who complain the most are also the people who drive hither
and yon to store after store for this or that. Unbelievable. TJ's
didn't start off as a full service grocery store, but it responded to
the complaints of entitled yuppies and (surprise, surprise) they're
still complaining.

--
Food is an important part of a balanced diet.

On Mon, 23 Apr 2012 23:35:27 -0700, "Julie Bove"
> wrote:

>
> "sf" > wrote in message
> ...
> > On Mon, 23 Apr 2012 17:47:49 -0700, "Julie Bove"
> > > wrote:
> >
> >> I *hate* the TJs here. Yes the clerks are in a good mood but they sell
> >> spoiled produce.
> >
> > My TJ's have produce that's fine, but I avoid their meat like the
> > plague.
>
> They've had tainted beef far too many times to suit me.

For that matter, they've had tainted packaged vegetables too. Trader
Joe's started off being cheese, wine and canned goods. Stick to those
and you'll do just fine.

> I don't know about the rest of their meats.
>

I was never big on buying meat there, but what really turned me off
was the time hubby came home with a package of beautiful little t-bone
lamb chops... the package was well under the sell by date, but the
clear plastic was inflated. I knew immediately there was a problem,
but opened it anyway and the stench was over powering. He took it
back and was going to get a different package, but they were all that
way. I don't trust how they handle meat and I'm talking about the
entire process, not limiting myself to the retail level.

--
Food is an important part of a balanced diet.

On Tue, 24 Apr 2012 02:20:32 -0700 (PDT), "
> wrote:

> You need to ask a question. They are not supposed to go around just
> handing out samples. But they are required to respond to your
> questions with offers of samples. Is it sweet? Is it is spicy? Things
> like that. Produce, deli, bakery, etc. Obviously not a raw piece of
> steak or something that would be unsafe. If the question can be
> answered with a sample, then a sample should be offered.

My husband was looking for a certain brand of English muffin and asked
if they carried it, which they don't. The store manager gave him a
package of some other brand to try and it was on the house. I have no
complaints about customer service, it's better than average IMO.

--
Food is an important part of a balanced diet.

On Tue, 24 Apr 2012 06:28:49 -0600, Janet Bostwick
> wrote:

> On Tue, 24 Apr 2012 02:07:41 -0700 (PDT), "
> > wrote:
>
> >snip
> And while Albertsons has a reputation for
> >cheap, all 5 items were considerably higher than Safeway's regular
> >prices.
> >
> snip
> Not on my planet. Albertsons is known for out-pricing the competition
> around here. . .I thought that was universal.
> Janet US

It is here. They went back to the "Lucky" name where I live, but they
pretty much lost me as a customer during the time they went
"Albertson" because they were so expensive and I wasn't getting
anything upscale for the money. As "Lucky", they're an equal with
Safeway. Maybe they have different sales and carry a few different
brands, but pricewise - they're the same.

--
Food is an important part of a balanced diet.

On Tue, 24 Apr 2012 07:26:50 -0700, "Julie Bove"
> wrote:

>
> "Janet Bostwick" > wrote in message
> ...
> > On Tue, 24 Apr 2012 02:07:41 -0700 (PDT), "
> > > wrote:
> >
> >>snip
> > And while Albertsons has a reputation for
> >>cheap, all 5 items were considerably higher than Safeway's regular
> >>prices.
> >>
> > snip
> > Not on my planet. Albertsons is known for out-pricing the competition
> > around here. . .I thought that was universal.
>
> Nope. Winco almost always beats Albertsons.
>
WinCo is more expensive than Albertsons? I thought it was cheap, like
Cub.

--
Food is an important part of a balanced diet.

On Apr 23, 10:38*pm, sf > wrote:
> On Mon, 23 Apr 2012 17:47:49 -0700, "Julie Bove"
>
> > wrote:
> > I *hate* the TJs here. *Yes the clerks are in a good mood but they sell
> > spoiled produce.
>
> My TJ's have produce that's fine, but I avoid their meat like the
> plague.
>

You could shop at Drewes or Guerra for what TJ's wants for their beef.

On Apr 24, 2:14*am, "
> wrote:
> On Apr 23, 2:09*pm, "Kent" > wrote:
>
>
>
>
>
> > "Julie Bove" ...
> > "sf" > wroteinmessage
>
> .. .
>
> > > On Sun, 22 Apr 2012 22:49:06 -0700, "Julie Bove"
> > > > wrote:
>
> > >> So I now know that these two are one and the same. *I do remember seeing
> > >> a>> Smart and FinalinOakland. *I always wanted to go there but was never
> > >> able
> > >> to.
>
> > >> So for those of you who go there... *What do you buy? *I don't
> > >> necessarily>> need to buy large quantities of things most of the time. *However, once
> > >> my>> husband moves back here I will be needing some thingsinlarge
> > >> quantities.>> Amazing how much food one man can consume! *Anyway....
>
> > >> We didn't have time to browse every aisle like we wanted to. *I saw super
> > >> good prices on produce and cheese. *And the bread was cheap. *12 pack
> > >> sodas
> > >> were more expensive than the sale price at most groceries. *And this
> > >> week, 2>> stores that I know of are giving out free stuff if you buy 3 of the 12
> > >> pack>> Coke products. *We got the skinny cans at Albertson's for free and>> Vitamin>> water at Target. *Target was also giving out chips if you bought the>> skinny
> > >> cans but we didn't need the chips.
>
> > >> Anyway... *What sorts of things should I look for there? *Thanks!
>
> > > Just walk down the aisles of the one you will shop at and scope it> out, Julie.*Theyoften have a really good price on butter, but> Safeway just got a new brand that's veryinexpensive and other brands> are usually on sale. *I have 3 S&F/C&C nearby andthey're all> different.*Theydo haveindustrial sized cans of stuff andincertain> stores (I think the ones labeled as Cash & Carry) there are walkin
> > > meat lockers where you can buy whole cuts of cryovac meat. *The first> time I ever saw Mayocoba beans, it was a 25pound bag at Smart &> Final. *I like dried beans, but notinthat quantity.
>
> > I didn't realizetheywere all different! *Here, Safeway is one of the
> > highest priced places to shop. *I rarely go there. *Only if I just need acouple of things and am by one or iftheyhave a sale on something.*Theydo
> > have good sale prices sometimes.
>
> > I think Safeway's exorbitant prices are pretty uniform everywhere. *Theirservice is pretty marginal. Everyone frowns, unlike Trader Joes.
>
> Perhaps you should fill out a comment card. Safeway has a very big
> service program, and it includes being friendly, *greeting with a
> smile, etc. Your description doesn't fit with my Safeway, or the ones
> i go to when I travel.
>
> I hated Trader Joes. The people were nice, yes, but everything was
> weird. I wanted to make a salad, and I could not find a normal Ranch
> dressing. There was some light version, but that was the only one.
> Most stores have multiple brands to choose from.

Costco doesn't, but the lack of variety doesn't keep people from
shopping there. Further, Trader Joes has housebrands wherever
possible.

> This store had mostly
> froo froo stuff, and nothing normal.

In that way it's a lot like Whole Foods, which appears to be
successful as well.

> We ended up going to another
> grocery to find our dinner. (We were traveling, so buying food to go
> back to a hotel room).

Trader Joe's has sandwiches and salads ready to eat. Other foods they
sell just need to be nuked.

On Apr 24, 7:48*am, sf > wrote:
> On Mon, 23 Apr 2012 22:17:01 -0700 (PDT), > wrote:
>
> > Some things they carry for years, but much is hit or miss. Coffee is
> > the thing that they discontinue most annoyingly for us. But they used
> > to have Hanover pretzels and King Arthur Flour.
>
> That's what happens when people treat TJ's like a full service grocery
> store. *DON'T and that will solve any and all problems. *It seems like
> the people who complain the most are also the people who drive hither
> and yon to store after store for this or that. *Unbelievable. *TJ's
> didn't start off as a full service grocery store, but it responded to
> the complaints of entitled yuppies and (surprise, surprise) they're
> still complaining.

Huh? I treated TJ's as a known source of Hanover pretzels. For years
they carried them, then for years they haven't. In fact, for years
they've carried no edible pretzels at all. Similarly for years they
carried King Arthur Flour before abruptly dropping it. Luckily I can
get it at Smart and Final. Neither product requires refrigeration,
both have a long sell-by date, both manufacturers are still in
business. So why the change?

Their coffee blends are very good for the price. We'll try one
(they're always being sampled), like it, and buy it for years, up to
the very day when it vanishes from the store forever.