Stories

Tue, 13 Oct 2026

Tue, 13 Oct 2026 Cost of living struggles inspire 'social supermarket'

New social supermarket offers cheaper groceries with dignity and choice.

* A new "social supermarket" has opened in Newcastle-under-Lyme, offering groceries at cost price or below.
* The store, set up by Community Cupboard NUL CIC, allows customers to sign up for a £1 membership and purchase tokens to spend on items throughout the store.
* Founder Thomas Cliffe hopes the store will provide people with "freedom to shop with dignity" and alleviate some of the pressure of living on a tight budget.
* The store aims to cut food waste while helping people facing food insecurity by selling surplus goods at lower prices.
* Customers, such as Cheryl Pepper, have reported finding the store helpful in saving money and reducing stress around grocery shopping.
* Research has shown that social supermarkets like this one can improve access to affordable food and reduce waste, but should not replace government support for those struggling with food insecurity.
* The new store is part of a growing trend of social supermarkets across the UK, which are seen as a more dignified alternative to traditional food banks.