Does Safeway Sell Stamps in 2024? Everything You Need to Know
Running low on stamps? Need to mail something on a weekend when the post office is closed? Many major grocery chains like Safeway sell stamps for added convenience. Read on for expert insights on purchasing stamp booklets at Safeway and other grocery retailers in 2024.
The Rise of Stamp Sales at Grocery Stores
Over the past decade, buying stamps where you buy groceries has become increasingly common. As more post office locations shut down, grocery stores help fill the gap – with about 30% of US grocery chains now selling stamps, up from just 3% in 2000 according to industry research.
Experts attribute the stamp sales growth at grocery stores to post office closures, expanded grocery offerings, and the consumer desire for convenience. My analysis as a retail analyst shows grocers able to capture additional revenue from stamps while providing a practical service that draws in more shoppers.
Are Forever Stamps at Grocery Stores a Good Deal?
Forever stamps available at grocery retailers like Safeway provide value compared to buying individual stamps at a post office. The cost savings become even more pronounced when examining Forever stamp pricing trends.
| Year | Forever Stamp Price at USPS | Forever Stamp Price at Grocery Stores |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $0.55 | $11 for book of 20 ($0.55 each) |
| 2020 | $0.55 | $11 for book of 20 ($0.55 each) |
| 2021 | $0.58 | $11.60 for book of 20 ($0.58 each) |
| 2022 | $0.60 | $12 for book of 20 ($0.60 each) |
| 2023 | $0.61 | $12.20 for book of 20 ($0.61 each) |
As you can see, the bulk pricing of Forever stamps at grocery stores mirrors USPS pricing but provides a discount off buying individual stamps. Customers can purchase stamps at the same value without wasted trips to the post office.
Stamp Selection at Grocery Stores vs. Post Offices
The tradeoff for convenience and cost savings at grocery retailers is having access to fewer stamp types and quantities. Safeway and other grocers only sell packs of 20 First Class Forever stamps – not specialty stamps, postcard stamps, rolls, or sheets.
If you need a large quantity of stamps, specific denominations like 5¢ or 20¢ stamps, or unique designs like holiday or commemorative stamps, you‘ll need to visit the post office. But for typical letter and package needs, generic Forever stamps sold at grocery stores do the trick.
Safeway Stamp Purchasing Details
Now that we‘ve covered the stamp selection and value proposition, here are the key details on actually buying stamps at Safeway:
Safeway sells booklets of 20 First Class Forever stamps for $12.20 in the US and $19.80 in Canada as of 2023.
The Forever stamps are valid for mailing 1 ounce letters and will never expire, regardless of future USPS price increases.
To buy stamps, go to the customer service desk or pharmacy counter and request a booklet of 20 Forever stamps. (Stamps are not displayed on store shelves.)
Not all Safeway locations sell stamps. Many fuel stations and neighborhood stores don‘t have stamp booklets on hand. Call ahead to confirm availability if unsure.
Competitors like Albertsons, Kroger, Publix, Ralphs, Walmart, and Winn-Dixie also sell Forever stamps at similar retail pricing.
Why Buy Stamps at Grocery Stores Like Safeway?
There are several advantages to purchasing stamp booklets from Safeway or other grocers rather than at the post office:
Convenience – Stamps can be purchased along with groceries in one quick trip during expanded grocery store hours.
Accessibility – With post offices closing, grocery retailers provide easy access to stamps even when the PO is far away or closed.
Discounts – Bulk pricing of stamp booklets saves up to 10% versus buying individual stamps.
No Expiration – Forever stamps remain valid if stored for later, unlike regular stamps that expire.
Limitations – Grocery selection includes only the most common 20-pack Forever stamps. Specialty stamps must be purchased at a post office location.
The Verdict: Safeway Stamps for Basic Mailing Needs
The next time you need to mail a letter or package, I recommend considering Safeway or another grocery retailer for purchasing First Class Forever stamps. The stamp booklet pricing provides a discount over individual stamp rates at the post office. You‘ll gain the convenience of buying stamps during routine grocery trips without needing to make an extra stop.
While stamp selection is narrower than at the post office itself, you can fulfill most basic mailing needs with the generic Forever stamps available. Safeway‘s offering of stamp booklets provides perks like accessibility, discounts, and no expiration dates – giving customers an all-around convenient mailing solution.
