Meal Deal Madness

In life there are many issues which need to addressed. Some easily. Some not so easily. Today I intend to evaluate the lunchtime meal deal. Yes, I've had a request to blog about this, and it makes sense as it is something that lies close to the heart (And Jack Colecloughs). I mean, if you're at work, the best part of the day is lunch. That is if, you choose the right lunch to suit your mood. If you don't, that afternoon is going to drag worse than Lilly Savage. That gag requires some thought.

Meal deals are a complex and dynamic feature of many lunchtime decisions. They normally comprise of a drink, Sandwich (or other main item) and a snack. This presents many issues along the way. Once you've chosen your sandwich, your not out of the woods yet, as then you have to choose your drink and snack. Drink choices may also be complicated by intrinsic deals or even the dreaded 'share a coke with friends', which presents a time consuming search for your name. Lunchtimes are limited. If you're easily into that type of marketing, steer clear of the cokes. Or be brave and pick up any. Most likely they'll be a 'Mandeep' or 'Sandeep', those popular names...

So in this post I'm only going to evaluate the bigger retailers, as most people are likely to have these where they are. Remember to take the time to read through them, this is serious stuff we're talking about here.

Boots Meal deal: The meal deal trend setter. If it's variety you're looking for, then look no further then Boots. They stock sarnies, wraps, sushi, yoghurt's, pasta, salads, chocolate bars, crisps, the list is endless. On top of all this, you can also collect Boots points on each purchase, giving you a little bit of extra value. WINNING. The sandwiches are good quality and there is normally special edition ones thrown into the mix, such as sausage and mustard or chicken and chipolte, keeping their range fresh and exciting. The drinks are good as well. Some smoothies listed as £2.60, can be included in the meal deal, which is good as it only costs £3.29 for the whole deal. A cracking way to spend your lunchtime and money. And if you're feeling extra peckish, they offer a 3 way sandwich. Ideal.

Tesco Meal deal: The Tesco meal deal is one that shouts out simplicity. Not stocking as many items as Boots, Tesco have focussed on offering a more limited range of sandwiches and wraps, but still of reasonable quality. And with a smaller product offering, some of the more simple minded readers may find it more manageable (Harriet, I'm looking at you). Also they have a smaller range of drinks and snacks as well, although all the popular brands are still there. And those of you who like rounded numbers will like Tesco, as they charge £3 exactly for their meal deal. Not bad.

Sainsburys Meal deal: Pretty much offering the same as Tesco with some deluxe ranges included in the offer, Sainsbury's lack the quality needed to compete with Tesco or Boots. The sandwiches seem basic and not as good quality as above. They fall apart and there is limited savoury choices away from the sarnie range. Poor showing Sainsbury's. I expected better from you. The meal deal itself also costs £3 and you do get nectar points. Although if you're close to a Boots, GO THERE!

Subway: This place is awful and poor value for money. Don't go there! That's all that needs to be said on this one.

Eat 4 Less: This place is amazing. There is one in Liverpool and it is literally the best. Although you're not likely to have one by you, I thought I would share the lunch potential that is out there! You get a huge variety of baguettes and pizza baguette slices amongst other savoury snacks, a portion of fries (similar to Mcdonalds) and a 330ml can of drink, all for £1.75. What a bargain. And before you say it, it is all good quality actually. My favourite is the cajun chicken and bacon baguette. Seriously scrum. I shall miss this place while I'm away from the Pool'.

Ok, so they are the main lunchtime destinations and it's time to unleash the 'Chambré Chart', aimed at ranking these establishments, in terms of their lunchtime potential.

Chambré Charts

*Eat 4 Less would be number one, but due to it's exclusivity, it has been withdrawn from the chart*

1. Boots

2. Tesco

3. Sainsburys

4. Subway: Although personally, I'd rather go hungry.

So that is the Meal deal evaluated and I hope this makes lunchtimes more exciting and can help your time management. Failure to take this matter seriously, will ultimately be your downfall. And I don't want that to happen. I care you see. 

And I shall leave you with my final thought. Get the most out of a meal deal. Don't get items that save you 10p. Rinse it for all it's worth. Some Boots combinations can save you over £3 on the price of buying the items separately. Don't get caught out!

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