Grocery Shopping Statistics and Insights

Where We Shop

Traditional supermarkets remain essential, but the mix is shifting:

• 47% of shoppers now prefer traditional supermarkets, a slight drop from 54% two years ago.

• Discount grocery chains account for 18% of visits, driven by inflation-conscious shopping.

• Warehouse clubs attract 12% of shoppers.

• Online grocery and delivery services now reach 23% of households monthly, fueled by click-and-collect convenience and subscription delivery models.

Insight for Shoppers: Combine online ordering with in-store trips for maximum convenience and savings. Insight for Retailers: A seamless omnichannel experience is no longer optional—it’s expected.

When We Shop

Peak traffic patterns have also shifted:

• Saturday is still the busiest day, but now with 37% of trips (down from 41%) as shoppers spread purchases across the week.

• Sunday shopping has grown to 22%, reflecting flexible weekend schedules.

• Monday and Tuesday remain the least crowded, with just 7% of total trips.

• Evenings (6–8 PM) have gained popularity due to remote work schedules, while the 8–10 AM window is still high for early birds.

Tip: Midweek evenings are now the best times for a relaxed, low-traffic shopping experience.

How Much We Spend

Economic pressures continue to shape spending:

• Households spend 11–16% of monthly income on groceries in 2025.

• 63% of shoppers make unplanned purchases—up from 58%—often influenced by in-store promotions or new products.

• 76% of consumers now use digital coupons or loyalty apps to save on groceries.

• Inflation has increased average basket size, with weekly spending up 8% year-over-year.

Insight: Use loyalty apps, plan meals, and compare prices online to combat higher costs.

Shopping Habits and Preferences

Consumer behavior reflects a blend of convenience, health, and tech adoption:

• Quick Trips: 72% of shoppers finish trips in under an hour.

• Local & Sustainable: 73% are willing to pay more for organic, locally sourced, or sustainably packaged products.

• Digital Influence: 92% of grocery shoppers check online reviews or social media before trying new brands.

• Hybrid Shopping: 30% of consumers regularly mix in-store and online grocery buying.

Retailers offering freshness, convenience, and personalization will continue to earn loyalty in this competitive environment.

Conclusion

The grocery shopping experience continues to evolve, driven by digital adoption, changing work schedules, and budget-conscious behaviors. For shoppers, smart planning and leveraging digital tools are key. For retailers, embracing omnichannel strategies and personalized service will win the day.

Remember: modern grocery shopping is about more than filling your cart—it’s about making informed, intentional choices that save time and money.