What you need to know
Groceries represent on average 8% of annual consumer spending which equates to roughly $4,000 per year for the average family as of 2013, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Grocery sales through MULO (multi outlet) channels are expected to reach $635.8 billion this year, and grow 14% to reach $721.8 billion in 2020. Retailers across channels are battling for a share of wallets and cash registers, creating what might be the most “crowded” segment in retail. Consumers are enjoying these options and fulfilling their grocery shopping needs by bouncing around to multiple stores that most definitely include nonsupermarkets. As such, traditional supermarkets are struggling to maintain, let alone grow, market share. In addition to shopping around in search of the best prices, product selections and service/experiences, consumers are increasingly turning to their computers and mobile devices to order groceries online.
Definition
This report focuses on all retail channels that provide grocery products including traditional supermarkets, warehouse clubs, natural markets (eg, Whole Foods Market and Trader Joe’s), drug stores, dollar stores, convenience stores, internet retailers (eg, Peapod and FreshDirect), and farmers markets.
Groceries are defined as products such as food, beverages, cleaning products, household goods (eg, toilet paper, garbage bags), and/or personal care products (eg, lotions, vitamins, and pharmacy products).
This report builds on the analysis presented in Mintel’s Grocery Retailing – US, February 2014 and 2013, Shopping for Groceries – US, July 2012, Grocery Store Retailing – US, January 2011, and Grocery Store Retailing – US, January 2010.
