For those in the know, a Greggs is never too far away, offering a comforting array of bakes, sandwiches, and sweet treats. But beyond the familiar blue and orange signage of a standard Greggs lies a lesser-known treasure trove for bargain hunters and environmentally conscious consumers alike: the Greggs Outlet. These unique stores operate with a different philosophy, offering the same beloved Greggs goodies at significantly reduced prices. Let’s delve into the world of Greggs Outlets, uncovering their purpose, what they offer, and why they’ve become a well-kept secret for savvy shoppers.
What Exactly is a Greggs Outlet?
A Greggs Outlet is essentially a discount Greggs store. Unlike their regular counterparts that sell freshly made items throughout the day, Outlets primarily sell day-old food products, items with slight imperfections (mis-shapes), and surplus stock directly from the factory at considerably lower prices.
Think of it as a “seconds” shop for your favourite sausage rolls and sweet treats. While the food might not have the same “straight-out-of-the-oven” warmth, it is still perfectly safe and delicious to eat, offering incredible value for money.
The core mission of Greggs Outlets extends beyond just offering cheap eats. They play a crucial role in reducing food waste within the company. By redirecting unsold items to these outlets, Greggs ensures that perfectly good food doesn’t end up in landfills. Furthermore, a significant portion of the profits generated by Greggs Outlets is donated to the Greggs Foundation, which in turn supports local community organizations and tackles food poverty in socially deprived areas.
The History of Greggs Outlets: A Legacy of Giving Back
The concept of a discounted Greggs store isn’t a recent phenomenon. The first iteration appeared way back in 1972 in Arthur’s Hill, Newcastle, under the name “Greggs ‘Seconds’ shop.” This initial venture was established with the dual purpose of providing affordable food to the local community and minimizing waste – a philosophy that continues to drive the Greggs Outlet model today.
This long history underscores Greggs’ commitment to both its customers and the communities it serves. The expansion of the Outlet network over the decades reflects a growing awareness of food waste issues and a sustained effort to make their products accessible to a wider range of people, particularly those in disadvantaged areas. By 2025, Greggs aims to have 50 Outlet shops operating across the UK, further solidifying their commitment to this initiative.
What Can You Find at a Greggs Outlet? The Bargain Hunter’s Paradise
The beauty of a Greggs Outlet lies in the element of surprise. The exact items available on any given day depend on what hasn’t sold in regular stores or what surplus stock is available from the factory. However, you can generally expect to find a variety of Greggs favourites at significantly reduced prices, often with discounts of up to 75% compared to standard store prices.
Here’s a glimpse of what you might typically find:
Savoury Bakes: Sausage Rolls (including vegan options), Steak Bakes, Chicken Bakes, Cheese and Onion Bakes, Corned Beef Bakes, Vegetable Bakes – often available individually or in multi-packs at a fraction of the usual cost.
Sandwiches and Baguettes: Cold pre-packed sandwiches and baguettes, perfect for a budget-friendly lunch.
Sweet Treats: Doughnuts (jam, glazed, filled), Muffins, Cookies, Gingerbread Men, Belgian Buns, and various cakes – ideal for satisfying a sweet craving without breaking the bank. You might even find boxes of doughnuts at incredibly low prices.
Broken or Misshapen Items: Bags of slightly imperfect biscuits or caramel shortbread pieces are often available at heavily discounted rates.
Hot and Cold Drinks: While not always the primary focus, some outlets may offer hot and cold drinks, sometimes even with the reusable cup discount.
It’s important to note that hot food from the counter in the traditional sense is usually not available at Greggs Outlets. The bakes and sausage rolls are typically sold cold, ready to be taken away and reheated at home. However, some outlets may have the facilities to heat these items for you.
Greggs Outlet vs. Regular Greggs: Key Differences
Feature Greggs Outlet Regular Greggs
Primary Offering Day-old, slightly imperfect, surplus stock Freshly made items throughout the day
Price Significantly discounted (up to 75% off) Standard retail prices
Food Temperature Primarily cold, may have reheating options Primarily hot and freshly prepared
Menu Variety Varies daily depending on unsold stock Consistent and full menu
Ambiance More functional, less focus on seating Often includes seating areas for eat-in customers
Purpose Reduce waste, provide affordable food Retail sales, on-the-go convenience
Profit Sharing Portion of profits goes to Greggs Foundation Standard business operations
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Why People Seek Out Greggs Outlets: The Appeal
The allure of a Greggs Outlet is multifaceted:
Unbeatable Value: The primary draw is undoubtedly the incredibly low prices. For individuals and families on a tight budget, the savings can be substantial, allowing them to enjoy their favourite treats without straining their finances.
Reducing Food Waste: For environmentally conscious consumers, shopping at a Greggs Outlet is a way to actively participate in reducing food waste. Knowing that perfectly edible food is being rescued from potential disposal is a significant motivator.
Supporting the Community: By purchasing from a Greggs Outlet, customers indirectly contribute to the Greggs Foundation’s efforts to combat food poverty and support local communities.
The Thrill of the Find: There’s a certain excitement in not knowing exactly what bargains you might find on any given day. Regulars often develop a knack for visiting at the right times to snag the best deals.
Finding a Greggs Outlet: A Growing Network
While not as ubiquitous as standard Greggs stores, the Greggs Outlet network is steadily expanding across the UK. They are strategically located in areas identified as having higher levels of social deprivation, ensuring that those who can benefit most from the discounted prices have access to them.
As of early 2025, there are over 30 Greggs Outlet shops in operation, with a commitment to reach 50 by the end of the year. These outlets can be found in various regions, including:
North East England: The birthplace of Greggs, with a significant number of outlets in areas like Newcastle, Gateshead, Sunderland, and Tyneside.
North West England: Including locations in Greater Manchester and Lancashire.
Yorkshire and the Humber: With outlets in cities like Leeds and Bradford.
West Midlands: Serving communities in Birmingham, Tipton, and surrounding areas.
South Wales: With outlets in Cardiff and Barry.
Scotland: Including several locations in Glasgow.
London: With a growing presence in areas like Canning Town and Edmonton.
To find the nearest Greggs Outlet, the best approach is to check the Greggs Foundation website or the Greggs corporate website, which often have a list of outlet locations. While the standard Greggs store locator might not specifically filter for outlets, knowing the general areas mentioned above can help in your search.
FAQs
What is a Greggs Outlet?
A Greggs Outlet is a discounted version of the standard Greggs bakery. It sells surplus food—typically items from the previous day—at significantly reduced prices. This initiative helps reduce food waste and provides affordable food options in underserved areas.
How much cheaper are the prices?
Greggs Outlets offer discounts of up to 75% compared to regular Greggs shops. For instance, a cheese and onion bake might cost just 75p, and a chocolate cookie around 36p.
What kind of food is sold at Greggs Outlets?
You can find a variety of items, including:
Sausage rolls and bakes
Doughnuts and cookies
Sandwiches and pizza slices
Yum yums and other sweet treats
These items are typically unsold stock from the previous day but are still fresh and safe to eat.
4Where are Greggs Outlets located?
As of 2025, Greggs operates over 35 Outlet shops across the UK, with plans to expand to 45 by the end of the year. Notable locations include:
Parkhead, Glasgow
Deckham, Gateshead
Preston, Lancashire
Tipton, West Midlands
London, Robert Street
You can find the full list of locations on the Greggs website.
What are the opening hours?
Opening hours vary by location. For example:
Parkhead, Glasgow: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Monday to Saturday), 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM (Sunday)
Deckham, Gateshead: 6:30 AM – 5:00 PM (Monday to Friday), 6:30 AM – 4:30 PM (Saturday), 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM (Sunday)
greggs.com
It’s advisable to check the specific outlet’s hours on the Greggs shop locator before visiting.
Can I warm up food at a Greggs Outlet?
Typically, Greggs Outlets do not have the facilities to heat food. Items are sold cold, so if you prefer your pastries warm, you’ll need to heat them at home.
Are Greggs Outlets open on Sundays?
Many Greggs Outlets are open on Sundays, but hours can vary. For instance, the Parkhead outlet operates from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM on Sundays. It’s best to verify the hours for your local outlet online.
Why does Greggs operate Outlet shops?
Greggs Outlets serve multiple purposes:
Reducing Food Waste: By selling surplus food, Greggs minimizes waste.
Community Support: Outlets are often located in disadvantaged areas, providing affordable food options.
Charitable Contributions: A portion of profits from Outlet shops is donated to local community organizations.
How can I find the nearest Greggs Outlet?
Use the Greggs shop locator to find the nearest Outlet. Simply enter your postcode or town, and filter the results to show Outlet locations.
Do Greggs Outlets accept Greggs Rewards or other promotions?
Greggs Outlets may not participate in all promotions available at standard Greggs shops. It’s recommended to check with the specific outlet regarding the acceptance of Greggs Rewards or other offers.
To conclude
Greggs Outlets are more than just a place to grab a cheap bite—they’re a testament to sustainable business practices and community support. By repurposing unsold food, Greggs not only reduces waste but also provides affordable options to those who need them most. The initiative reflects a growing trend among businesses to prioritize both environmental responsibility and social impact.
For consumers, Greggs Outlets offer an opportunity to enjoy their favorite treats at a lower cost without compromising on quality. Whether you’re a student on a budget, a family looking to save, or someone who simply appreciates a good deal, these outlets cater to a wide audience.
As the cost of living continues to rise, initiatives like Greggs Outlets play a crucial role in ensuring that everyone has access to affordable, quality food. They serve as a model for how businesses can operate sustainably while making a positive impact on their communities.
In essence, Greggs Outlets embody the idea that good food should be accessible to all, and that businesses have the power to drive meaningful change. So, the next time you’re near a Greggs Outlet, consider stopping by—not just for the savings, but to support a movement towards a more sustainable and inclusive food industry.
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