Summary:
- According to a recent survey by AlixPartners, the majority of consumers plan to maintain or increase their spending on groceries in 2026 compared to 2025.
- Grocery is the only category expected to see a rise in consumer spending next year, indicating a strong focus on value among shoppers.
- While consumers are willing to spend more on groceries, they are also price-conscious and will switch retailers to save even a small amount.
Insights:
The survey results by AlixPartners present a positive outlook for the grocery industry, but also highlight the importance of retailers working hard to retain customers.
One-third of U.S. shoppers surveyed plan to increase their grocery spending in 2026, with younger and higher-income consumers more likely to do so. However, high prices are squeezing consumers, leading to strategies such as better planning, choosing cheaper options, and shopping less frequently.
Price is the top factor influencing grocery shoppers to switch retailers, with better prices being more appealing than service, convenience, or experience. The willingness to switch for health-focused products also increases with income levels.
According to Matt Hamory from AlixPartners, digital and delivery services have expanded consumer choices, leading to more selective shopping behaviors. This trend is likely to continue in the grocery sector next year.
The expected spending patterns for 2026 reflect trends seen in 2025, with nearly half of U.S. shoppers spending more on groceries this year than in 2024. The survey, conducted across multiple countries, indicates an overall increase in grocery spending next year while reducing spending in other categories like eating out, travel, and wellness.
The survey, which included responses from consumers in various countries, shows a consistent trend of increasing grocery spending and decreasing spending in other categories for the upcoming year.