Erewhon, in Los Angeles, is one of the best chains for shopping, according to Crown Financial Ministries. Along the same lines, New York, Citaerlla, and Dean & Deluca offer much more exclusive products compared to those found in Seattle, Pcc Community Manager, which focuses more on sustainability. Thus, Whole Foods, owned by Amazon, according to a study conducted by Investopedia, has made shopping a great experience, along with Bristol Farm and Gelson’s Fresh Market. In addition, we will also discuss Central Market in Texas, which focuses on culinary offerings, as well as Natural Grocers, Kings Food Market, Harris Teeter, and Acme Markets, which are well-known for their high prices. Finally, Wegmans and Fresh Thyme offer a wide variety of local products. Continue reading to learn everything about these “high-end” supermarkets.
Erewhon: luxury in the form of a supermarket
Based in Los Angeles, Erewhon has been rated by Crown Financial Ministries as the most expensive supermarket in the United States.Its stores combine wellness products, premium foods, and private label items that cost much more than in other establishments.
For example, a simple reusable bag with the Erewhon logo costs $138, while a pack of 24 bottles of sparkling water costs $80. In addition, the supermarket offers exclusive memberships: $200 per year with valet parking and an additional $100 to access its café, which sells smoothies, coffees, and prepared dishes.
Citarella: New York’s marine luxury
On the east coast, Citarella is a chain with seven branches in New York that specializes in fresh fish and seafood.
However, its exclusivity is reflected in prices that are three times the national average: half a gallon of milk costs $11.49, a dozen eggs $12.99, and a bag of boneless chicken breasts $17.49.
The store began more than 70 years ago as a small restaurant in Manhattan and today serves a loyal Upper West Side clientele willing to pay for gourmet products.
PCC Community Market: healthy cooperative, high prices
In Seattle, PCC Community Market stands out as the largest consumer-owned food cooperative in the United States. Its commitment to sustainability led it to become the first supermarket to receive Living Building Challenge (LBC) certification in 2020.
However, that ecological philosophy comes at a cost. Customers report paying up to $7 for six ounces of organic raspberries and $20 for frozen hamburgers, figures that double those of more affordable chains such as Costco.
Whole Foods: the pioneer of the organic market
Since its purchase by Amazon in 2017, Whole Foods has slightly reduced its prices, but it is still around 12% more expensive than national supermarkets, according to Investopedia.
A chef who compared his weekly spending in Business Insider found that staple foods such as pasta, chicken, and tofu were almost twice as expensive as in other stores. Even so, its wide range of organic and fair trade products continues to attract those who prioritize quality and health over cost.
Bristol Farms: culinary art in Los Angeles
Bristol Farms, based in Southern California, has turned grocery shopping into a visual experience. Its stores resemble art galleries in the way they display fruit, meat, and prepared foods.But the elegant design comes at a price: a box of spaghetti costs $4.79, a jar of brown sugar $5.69, and a five-pound bag of organic flour $12.19.
Natural Grocers: natural comes at a price
Founded in 1955 in Colorado, Natural Grocers was one of the first chains to promote organic and GMO-free foods. Although it boasts of selling 100% natural fruits, vegetables, and meats, the prices are high. A whole chicken can cost $11.99, and a bottle of BBQ sauce, $5.55. The company does not even display prices online without registration, reflecting its exclusive approach.
Kings Food Market: The royalty of the Northeast
Present in New Jersey and Connecticut since 1936, Kings Food Market is known as the supermarket of the rich. An avocado sells for $4.29, almost three times the national average of $1.43, and a rotisserie chicken costs $9.99. Its clientele, made up of wealthy families and professionals, come for premium meats, local products, and chef-prepared meals.
Gelson’s Fresh Market: the Californian classic
Founded in the mid-20th century, Gelson’s has dozens of branches in Southern California.
Among its most notable prices: a dozen eggs for $10.99, a gallon of milk for $6.99, and a pound of chicken for $14.99. In addition to groceries, the supermarket offers catering, flowers, and food events, such as wine tastings and Taco Tuesdays.
Central Market: Texan luxury
Based in Texas, Central Market has positioned itself as a gourmet destination that combines a market and a culinary center. It offers everything from cooking classes to wine tastings, but at prices that few can afford. A dozen eggs costs between $7 and $8, and a gallon of organic milk costs more than $8.
Dean & Deluca: the symbol of New York luxury
Born in the SoHo neighborhood, Dean & Deluca achieved international fame for its gourmet products and refined style.
Although the company filed for bankruptcy in 2020, it maintains an online presence and plans to make a comeback with new international locations. In its catalog, a babka loaf of bread costs $28, a package of decorated cookies costs $35, and a bag of coffee costs $18.
Harris Teeter and Acme Markets: expensive but popular
With more than 260 stores in seven states, Harris Teeter ranks among the most expensive chains in the country, with a half-gallon of organic milk at $6.49 and a rotisserie chicken at $7.99.
Acme Markets, founded in 1937, offers pharmacy services and select products. A dozen eggs costs $7.29, and a gallon of milk costs $4.99, compared to the national average of $3.
Wegmans and Fresh Thyme: quality comes at a price
The Wegmans chain, with more than 110 stores, sells gourmet products and chef-prepared meals, but at prices that exceed those of its competitors: a dozen eggs costs $7.39 and a chicken breast costs almost $9.
In the Midwest, Fresh Thyme offers natural and local foods, although its average price is 9% higher than at Walmart or Target, which can add up to an extra $450 per year for an American family.
