The State of the GROCERY INDUSTRY 2025
SEP 2025
Managing Editor: John Mathews
Senior Writer: Stephanie Kreml
Writers: Mary Alison, Allison Gillchrist,
Kim Langdon Cull, Connie Yerbic, Elena Borrelli
Magazine Designer : Michelle Wong
Digital Publishing Director: John Louis
Advertising: David Miller
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Copyright © 2025
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any means, electronic, photocopying or otherwise, without prior permission of the publisher and copyright owner. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this publication, the publisher accepts no responsibility for errors or omissions. The products and services advertised are those of individual authors and are not necessarily endorsed by or connected with the publisher. The opinions expressed in the articles within this publication are those of individual authors and not necessarily those of the publisher.
The grocery industry stands at a crossroads. What was once defined by shelves, aisles, and weekly flyers is now being reshaped by algorithms, shopper values, and the blurring of channels. The defining challenge for 2025 is no longer “how to sell more,” but “how to sell smarter.”
E-commerce grocery sales are set to outpace the broader sector, underscoring that convenience has become non-negotiable. Walmart’s investment in supply chains, Amazon’s mastery of subscriptions, and discounters’ sharp pricing are redefining competition. Yet, price alone is no longer the trump card. Today’s consumers expect grocers to align with their values—from sustainability to corporate ethics—even as inflation continues to pinch.
This balancing act—between affordability and authenticity, between technology and humanity—has never been more evident on the grocery floor. In this edition, RetailToday proudly presents the “Super 25” grocery chains in the U.S., recognizing those redefining community service through resilience and innovation. From automating fulfillment centers to streamlining checkout, mobile commerce, and curbside pickup, these leaders demonstrate how grocery adapts to modern shopper demands.
The winners will be those who treat data not as a rear-view mirror but as a compass. With predictive insights, grocers can anticipate shifts—from seafood in Lent to dairy in back-to-school season—balancing price with authenticity and loyalty.
Innovation is no longer optional. Grocery is becoming not just a place to buy food, but a platform where technology, trust, and transparency converge. The future belongs to those who can adapt at the speed of their shoppers.
Happy reading!
John Mathews
Aisles of Change: Reinventing Grocery for the Next Era