As food prices continue to increase, more and more shoppers are looking at more cost-effective alternatives, with a growing trend of European outlets starting to dominate the upper echelons of the ‘cheapest supermarket’ in the USA ranking.
A recent study by MarketForce, which surveyed over 4,300 shoppers, showcased the grocery stores that best balance affordability with quality, with Lidl leading the way.
Lidl officially opened its first U.S. stores in June 2017 and started with locations in Virginia Beach and Hampton, Virginia. Lidl’s US expansion has been gradual, with the company investing in opening stores in various states across the East Coast.
Lidl first opened its doors in Germany in the 1970s and with its aim to keep its overhead low by minimizing staffing and using a streamlined warehouse-style setup. This helps reduce costs for shoppers, making it one of the most budget-friendly options for families.
According to the MarketForce study, an impressive 81.4% of customers return to Lidl because of its unbeatable value.
WinCo Foods comes second in the ranking. Stores are primarily located in the Western U.S. WinCo is an employee-owned, warehouse-style store that offers incredibly competitive prices, often undercutting even Walmart. They don’t require membership fees like Costco or Sam’s Club.
The chain is famed for its bulk foods (grains, nuts, spices), low meat prices, produce, and dry goods, with customers often having to bag their own groceries.
This chain (which is found on both East and West Coasts) specializes in closeout deals and discounted name brands, often offering groceries at 40-70% less than traditional stores. It’s a “treasure hunt” shopping experience as inventory rotates.
Grocery Outlet customers claim that they can find heavy discounts on brand-name items, organic and gourmet products, and unexpected finds.