The effect of inflation on the prices of basic necessities is more than evident. The American consumer is faced with a gymkhana of supermarkets in the United States that compete for the lowest prices. MarketForce has conducted a survey that has resulted in a ranking of supermarkets preferred by consumers in 2025. The top three is made up of the brands Lidl, WinCo and Bargain Market, leaving out Costco and Walmart. And you? Have you already chosen your favorite supermarket?
Supermakets in the United States
The United States has numerous large-surface brands throughout the country. Department stores where you can find products of all kinds at affordable prices. Food, drugstore, textile, cleaning products, school supplies, among many other products. Some of the present and best known chains are Walmart, Costco, Target, Aldi, WinCo, Lidl or Bargain Market. Market leadership has fluctuated. Consumers have been changing their preferences based on prices, product quality, accessibility and proximity to establishments. However, today there is a clear leader.
Market survey: MarketForce
Although it can be seen at a glance that the trend among US consumers is towards European chain products, MarketForce, a private company dedicated to user experience management, decided to carry out a study. With years of experience helping different organizations increase their rankings, MarketForce conducted a quality and user experience survey among consumers at large supermarket chains in the United States. With a sample of 4,300 people, I draw up a list of the best and most chosen supermarkets by consumers. The result is surprising, since companies like Walmart and Costco are not in the top 3.
Results of the survey
Although the MarketForce study has a list of supermarkets ranked according to the importance given by consumers, let’s focus on the top 3:
- Lidl. The German-based company that first opened its doors in Germany in 1970 is the leading supermarket chain in Europe, with more than 13,900 outlets spread over 32 countries. The United States saw its arrival in June 2017, with the opening of two stores in Virginia Beach and Hamptons, Virginia. With a low number of employees and with a simplified and strategic distribution of the establishments, the brand has managed to achieve its objective of eliminating overload. In addition, the benefit is shared with consumers as it allows them to shop at lower costs, which is very attractive for families. No less than 81.4% of customers who visit a Lild establishment repeat for its excellent value for money, according to the MarketForce survey.
- WinCo. Described as a empolyee-owned warehouse-style store, this brand can be found in the west of the country. With no fees as in Costco or Sam’s Club, these establishments have incredibly competitive prices. They offer their products in bulk (which is also very attractive), and the customer has to pack his own products.Â
- Bargain Market. Last but not least. It is the largest edible outlet in the country, and that is precisely its appeal. Located on both the east and west coast, shopping at Bargain Market is a new surprise every day as it has a rotating inventory. You can purchase great brands and quality products paying between 40% and 70% less. If you want to go to the supermarket with a closed list of products, this may not be the best option for you!
Although there are many supermarket chains throughout the country, it seems that European brands, with a different point of view and defined strategies, have better understood the needs of US consumers, which has led them to be the top 1. If you had doubts about which supermarket was the most valued in the United States, you already know it. Now it’s time to go out and find out what is your favorite!
Do you know which is the other European supermarket that succeeds in the United States?
