Budget supermarkets Lidl and B&M are currently captivating bargain hunters with their impressive range of 'dupes' – affordable alternatives to popular, high-end products, most notably Lush shower gels. This trend is particularly appealing amid the ongoing cost of living crisis, making luxury-inspired items accessible to a broader consumer base and driving significant excitement on social media platforms like Facebook.

Lidl has introduced its Deluxe Lavish Shower Gel, which shoppers are quickly identifying as a dupe for Lush's expensive offerings. Priced at just £1.59 for Lidl Plus members (or £1.99 for non-members) for a 500ml bottle, these shower gels come in two appealing fragrances: 'Relax' (lavender-scented, reminiscent of Lush's 'Sleepy' shower gel) and 'Dizzy Rose' (strawberry-scented). For comparison, Lush's 'Sleepy' shower gel, also lavender-scented, can cost a hefty £27 for a 520g bottle, making Lidl's version a staggering £25.41 cheaper. Shoppers have also noted other scents, including a 'Winter Fairy' one that reportedly smells like Lush's 'Snow Fairy', and a 'honey' variant, further expanding the appeal of Lidl's budget-friendly bath products.

Beyond shower gels, Lidl is also bringing back its popular designer-dupe kitchenware. Their cast iron casserole dishes, available in 1.35L and 4.7L sizes, offer a significantly cheaper alternative to high-end brands like Le Creuset. A 1.35L Lidl dish costs just £13.49, compared to £209 for a similar Le Creuset product. The larger 4.7L version is priced at £26.99, while a comparable Le Creuset dish could cost £305, resulting in savings of over £270. These durable, enamel-coated dishes are oven-safe up to 240°C and compatible with all hob types, including induction, and feature a clever drop-system lid to lock in flavour.

Not to be outdone, B&M has also entered the dupe market with its 'Glow Studio Shower Gels' gift set, priced at an astonishing £4 for three bottles. This collection is presented in a gold box, making it an ideal Christmas gift or a personal treat. Each of the three scents in the set is inspired by a well-known Lush fragrance: 'Berry Jam' mirrors Lush's 'Rose Jam', 'Candy Floss' is a take on Lush's viral 'Snow Fairy' Christmas scent, and 'Apple Pie' draws inspiration from Lush's 'Temptation'. Given that individual Lush shower gels typically start at £8.80, a set of three would cost around £25.50, meaning B&M's offering saves shoppers a considerable £21.50.

The launch of these dupes by both Lidl and B&M has generated significant buzz among consumers. Social media groups dedicated to extreme couponing and bargains are flooded with posts and comments from eager shoppers keen to acquire these budget-friendly alternatives. This trend highlights a growing consumer demand for affordable luxury and the increasing influence of discount retailers in providing high-quality, cost-effective product options.