Supermarkets - Groceries

The U.S. supermarket industry is dominated by several key players, each offering unique services, membership benefits, and specializing in various product categories. Below is an overview of major supermarkets, including their names, website links, membership plans, locations, stock symbols, specializations, market capitalization, profitability, and current market trends.

1. Walmart Inc. (WMT)

Walmart Inc. (NYSE: WMT) is a leading multinational retail corporation headquartered in Bentonville, Arkansas. Founded in 1962 by Sam Walton, Walmart has grown to become one of the world's largest retailers, offering a wide range of products and services at everyday low prices.Forbes+1MarketWatch+1Forbes+1

Website: Walmart

Membership Plans: Walmart offers the "Walmart+” membership program, which provides benefits such as free shipping with no order minimums, free delivery from stores, fuel discounts, and access to the mobile scan & go feature for in-store shopping.

Locations: As of fiscal year 2024, Walmart operates more than 10,500 stores and numerous eCommerce websites across 19 countries, serving approximately 255 million customers and members each week. Walmart Stock

Employees and Benefits: Walmart employs approximately 2.1 million associates worldwide. The company is known for offering competitive wages and benefits, including health insurance, retirement savings plans, and opportunities for career advancement.Walmart Stock

Stock Symbol: WMTYahoo Finance+1Yahoo Finance+1Yahoo Finance+1

Specialization: Walmart operates through various store formats, including supercenters, discount stores, and neighborhood markets. The company offers a vast assortment of merchandise, such as groceries, apparel, electronics, home goods, and pharmacy services. Additionally, Walmart has a significant online presence, providing eCommerce services to its customers.

Market Capitalization: As of February 26, 2025, Walmart's market capitalization is approximately $772.85 billion USD. YCharts

Profitability: In the holiday quarter of fiscal year 2025, Walmart reported total revenue of $180.6 billion, with an operating income of $7.9 billion. The company experienced a 20% increase in its e-commerce business during this period. However, Walmart's full-year projections for fiscal year 2026 indicate expectations of 3-4% net sales growth and adjusted operating income growth of 3.5-5.5%, which fell short of Wall Street's expectations. The Wall Street Journal Markets Insider

Market Trends: Walmart has successfully navigated periods of high inflation by attracting a diverse customer base, including higher-income households seeking value on everyday items. The company has leveraged its negotiating power with suppliers to offer competitive pricing and has invested in services like store pickup and grocery delivery to enhance customer convenience. Despite these efforts, cautious financial outlooks have led to concerns about potential slowdowns in consumer spending, impacting investor sentiment and leading to stock fluctuations. The Wall Street Journal Markets Insider

In summary, Walmart Inc. continues to be a dominant force in the global retail industry, focusing on providing value to its customers through a combination of physical stores and eCommerce platforms. The company's strategic initiatives and adaptability position it well to navigate the evolving retail landscape.

2. Costco Wholesale Corporation (COST)

Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ: COST) is a leading American multinational corporation operating a chain of membership-only big-box retail stores. Founded in 1983 in Seattle, Washington, Costco has grown to become one of the world's largest retailers, recognized for its wide range of products and competitive pricing.

Website: Costco Wholesale

Membership Plans: Costco offers two primary membership tiers:

Gold Star Membership: Designed for individual consumers, this annual membership provides access to all Costco locations worldwide and online shopping.
Executive Membership: Includes all Gold Star benefits plus additional perks such as a 2% annual reward on eligible purchases and discounts on various Costco services.

Locations: As of August 2024, Costco operates 897 warehouses globally, with a significant presence in the United States and additional locations in countries such as Canada, Mexico, the United Kingdom, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Australia, and Spain. The company plans to open 29 new warehouses by September 2025.

Employees and Benefits: Costco employs a large workforce across its global operations. The company is known for offering competitive wages and comprehensive benefits packages, including health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for career advancement. In January 2024, Ron Vachris, who began his career as a forklift driver, was appointed as the third CEO in Costco's history, highlighting the company's commitment to internal growth and development.

Stock Symbol: COST

Specialization: Costco specializes in offering a wide array of products through its membership warehouses and e-commerce platforms. The company's inventory includes groceries, appliances, electronics, apparel, health and beauty aids, hardware, and more. Costco is also recognized as the world's largest retailer of beef, poultry, organic produce, and wine as of August 2024.

Market Capitalization: As of February 26, 2025, Costco's market capitalization is approximately $464.24 billion USD.

Profitability: In the first 22 weeks of the fiscal year 2025, Costco reported an 8.2% increase in sales, amounting to $113.55 billion, with U.S. sales rising by 6.6%.

Market Trends: Despite economic challenges affecting other retailers, Costco continues to expand, planning to open six

3. The Kroger Co. (KR)

The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) is a prominent American retail company, recognized as one of the largest supermarket operators in the United States. Founded in 1883 by Bernard Kroger in Cincinnati, Ohio, the company has expanded its footprint to nearly 2,800 stores across 35 states, operating under various banners. Wikipedia

Website: The Kroger Co.

Membership Plans: Kroger offers the free "Kroger Plus" loyalty program, providing customers with access to exclusive discounts, personalized digital coupons, and fuel rewards. Additionally, the "Boost by Kroger Plus" subscription service offers benefits like free delivery and additional fuel savings for an annual fee.

Stock Symbol: KRMacroTrends+3Kroger+3Alpha Spread+3

Specialization: Kroger operates a diverse range of store formats, including supermarkets, multi-department stores, and marketplace stores. The company offers a wide array of products such as fresh produce, meat, seafood, bakery items, dairy, and pharmacy services. Kroger also emphasizes its private label brands, which contribute significantly to its sales. GlobalData+1Wikipedia+1GlobalData+1

Market Capitalization: As of February 26, 2025, Kroger's market capitalization is approximately $46.77 billion USD. Companies Market Cap

Profitability: In the third quarter of fiscal year 2024, Kroger reported lower sales, influenced by reduced fuel prices and the sale of its specialty-pharmacy business. Despite these challenges, the company slightly increased its annual profit outlook, anticipating modest growth and continued price control measures. MarketWatch

Market Trends: Kroger has been navigating a competitive retail landscape, facing challenges from discount retailers and e-commerce giants. A significant development was the proposed $20 billion merger with Albertsons, which was blocked by a federal judge due to antitrust concerns. This decision has led to ongoing legal disputes, with Albertsons seeking damages and both companies reassessing their strategic positions. The Wall Street Journal

In summary, The Kroger Co. remains a key player in the U.S. grocery industry, continually adapting to market dynamics and consumer preferences. The company's focus on expanding its private label offerings, enhancing customer loyalty programs, and exploring strategic partnerships underscores its commitment to maintaining a competitive edge in the evolving retail sector.

4. Albertsons Companies Inc. (ACI)

Albertsons Companies Inc. (NYSE: ACI) is one of the largest food and drug retailers in the United States, operating over 2,200 stores across 34 states under various well-known banners, including Albertsons, Safeway, Vons, Jewel-Osco, Shaw's, and Acme. Albertsons Companies+1Albertsons Companies+1Albertsons Companies+1

Website: Albertsons Companies

Membership Plans: Albertsons offers the "Just for U" loyalty program, providing personalized deals, digital coupons, and rewards to enhance customer savings and shopping experiences.

Stock Symbol: ACIMarketWatch+2Alpha Spread+2Stock Analysis+2

Specialization: Albertsons specializes in providing a wide range of grocery products, including fresh and perishable items, non-perishable food, health and beauty care products, pharmacy services, and fuel. Approximately 80% of the company's sales come from non-perishable and fresh food, with 25% of that from its portfolio of private brands. Stock Analysis+1PitchBook+1Stock Analysis+1

Market Capitalization: As of February 26, 2025, Albertsons Companies has a market capitalization of approximately $12.00 billion USD. YCharts

Profitability: In the last 12 months, Albertsons reported revenue of $79.93 billion and a net income of $1.04 billion, resulting in earnings per share of $1.78. Stock Analysis

Market Trends: Albertsons has been focusing on technology and cost-cutting measures to enhance growth, especially after the proposed merger with Kroger was blocked by antitrust enforcers. The company is investing in e-commerce, wellness, automation, and a streamlined loyalty program to drive growth. Despite raising its profit outlook, Albertsons remains cautious about sales trends due to a slowdown observed in December. MarketWatch+1The Wall Street Journal+1MarketWatch+1 MarketWatch

In summary, Albertsons Companies Inc. continues to be a significant player in the U.S. retail market, adapting to industry challenges through strategic investments and a focus on customer-centric services.

5. Target Corporation (TGT)

Target Corporation (NYSE: TGT) is a prominent American retailer known for offering a wide range of products, including a substantial focus on food and grocery items. Founded in 1962, Target has expanded its presence to over 1,900 stores across the United States, providing customers with convenient access to quality merchandise.

Website: Target

Membership Plans: While Target does not require a membership to shop, it offers the Target Circle loyalty program, which provides members with exclusive deals, personalized recommendations, and 1% earnings on every purchase to redeem later. Additionally, the Target RedCard offers 5% off purchases, free shipping on most items, and an extended return period.

Stock Symbol: TGTThe Wall Street Journal+12Target Corporate+12Grocery Dive+12

Specialization: Target's food and beverage division has become a significant part of its business, with offerings that include fresh produce, dairy, meat, pantry staples, and a variety of organic and private-label products. The company emphasizes a curated selection of high-quality items to meet diverse customer preferences. Notably, food and beverage items are present in more than 55% of shopper baskets, highlighting the importance of this category in driving store visits. Grocery Dive+1Supermarket News+1Grocery Dive+1 Grocery Dive

Market Capitalization: As of February 26, 2025, Target Corporation's market capitalization is approximately $57.4 billion USD.

Profitability: In fiscal year 2023, Target reported total revenue of $107 billion. The food and beverage segment has seen substantial growth, with sales increasing by more than $8 billion since 2019, reaching $24 billion. This growth indicates a strong consumer demand for Target's grocery offerings.Target Corporate Grocery Dive

Market Trends: Despite the growth in its food and beverage sector, Target has faced challenges in maintaining customer satisfaction and sales momentum. Recent reports indicate a decline in customer satisfaction, with issues such as missing items and long checkout lines contributing to the downturn. Additionally, economic factors have led consumers to prioritize essentials, impacting sales of discretionary items. In response, Target is focusing on enhancing its grocery offerings and competitive pricing to attract and retain customers. The Wall Street Journal The Wall Street Journal+2Barron's+2Axios+2

Overall, Target's food and supermarkets division plays a crucial role in its retail strategy, contributing significantly to revenue and customer engagement. The company continues to adapt to market dynamics, aiming to provide a compelling shopping experience in the competitive retail landscape.

6. Sprouts Farmers Market Inc. (SFM)

Sprouts Farmers Market Inc. (NASDAQ: SFM) is a leading American specialty retailer focusing on fresh, natural, and organic products. Founded in 2002, Sprouts has expanded to over 440 stores across 24 states, employing approximately 35,000 team members. Sprouts Farmers Market Business Wire+2Investors+2Sprouts Farmers Market+2

Website: Sprouts Farmers Market

Membership Plans: Sprouts operates without a membership model, allowing all customers to shop freely without any fees.

Stock Symbol: SFM

Specialization: Sprouts is renowned for offering a wide array of fresh produce, organic items, and natural products. Their stores provide a farmers market experience, featuring fresh meats, dairy, bulk foods, supplements, baked goods, and more. Investors

Market Capitalization: As of February 26, 2025, Sprouts Farmers Market's market capitalization is approximately $11.63 billion. Finbox

Profitability: In the fourth quarter of 2024, Sprouts reported net sales of $2.0 billion, an 18% increase from the same period in 2023, with comparable store sales growth of 11.5%. Diluted earnings per share were $0.79, up from $0.49 in the previous year. For the full year 2024, net sales reached $7.7 billion, a 13% increase from 2023, with a 7.6% growth in comparable store sales. Diluted earnings per share for the year were $3.75, compared to $2.50 in 2023. Business Wire

Market Trends: Despite impressive earnings growth, Sprouts experienced a 2% dip in share price, which some analysts view as a potential entry point for investors. The company continues to expand, opening 33 new stores in 2024, and plans to further increase its footprint in the coming years. Seeking Alpha+2Simply Wall St+2Simply Wall St+2 Business Wire

Overall, Sprouts Farmers Market maintains a strong position in the natural and organic retail sector, with consistent growth and a commitment to providing fresh, healthy products to its customers.

7. BJ's Wholesale Club Holdings Inc. (BJ)

BJ's Wholesale Club Holdings Inc. (NYSE: BJ) is a prominent American membership-only warehouse club chain, primarily operating along the East Coast of the United States. Founded in 1984, the company has established itself as a leading retailer, offering a wide range of products and services to its members.

Website: BJ's Wholesale Club

Membership Plans:

Club Membership: Priced at $60 annually, this plan provides access to all BJ's locations and online shopping, along with exclusive member-only savings.
Club+ Membership: At $120 per year, this premium plan includes all the benefits of the standard membership, plus additional perks such as two free same-day deliveries annually.

Locations: As of 2025, BJ's operates over 240 warehouse clubs, primarily situated along the East Coast, with a significant presence in the New England area. The company is expanding into new markets, with plans to open four new stores in Texas, marking its first entry into the state.

Stock Symbol: BJ

Specialization: BJ's offers a vast selection of products, including groceries, electronics, furniture, fitness equipment, video games, health and beauty items, toys, and home decor. The company emphasizes value, consistently providing up to 25% savings on a representative basket of manufacturer-branded groceries compared to traditional supermarkets.

Market Capitalization: As of February 26, 2025, BJ's Wholesale Club Holdings Inc. has a market capitalization of approximately $13.89 billion.

Profitability: In the third quarter of fiscal year 2024, BJ's reported a net income of $155.7 million on sales of $4.98 billion. The company has experienced growth in membership, reaching 7.5 million members by the third quarter of 2024.

Market Trends: In response to market dynamics and to enhance member value, BJ's announced its first membership fee increase in seven years, effective January 1, 2025. The standard Club membership fee rose from $55 to $60, while the Club+ membership increased from $110 to $120. This adjustment aims to support further investments in value offerings for members. Additionally, BJ's is expanding its footprint, with plans to open new stores in Texas, indicating a strategic move to enter new markets and compete with other warehouse retailers.

Overall, BJ's Wholesale Club Holdings Inc. continues to strengthen its position in the retail industry by focusing on member value, strategic expansion, and adapting to market trends.

8. Grocery Outlet

Grocery Outlet Holding Corp. (NASDAQ: GO) is a prominent American discount retailer specializing in offering brand-name groceries and household items at significantly reduced prices. Founded in 1946 by James Read, the company has grown to over 500 independently operated stores across the United States, with a strong presence in California, Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Nevada, Maryland, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Ohio, and Delaware. Wikipedia+2TradingView+2Yahoo Finance+2 Wikipedia

Website: Grocery Outlet

Membership Plans: Grocery Outlet operates without a membership model, allowing all customers to access discounted products without any fees.

Stock Symbol: GO

Specialization: The company focuses on providing deeply discounted, overstocked, and closeout products from both name-brand and private-label suppliers. Inventory varies frequently, offering customers a unique "treasure hunt" shopping experience. Popular sections include NOSH (Natural, Organic, Specialty, and Healthy) products, catering to health-conscious consumers seeking budget-friendly options. Wikipedia

Market Capitalization: As of February 26, 2025, Grocery Outlet's market capitalization stands at approximately $1.09 billion USD. Companies Market Cap

Profitability: In the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2024, the company reported net sales exceeding $1 billion, slightly surpassing Wall Street expectations. However, quarterly profits were weaker than anticipated, with an adjusted profit of 15 cents per share on $1.10 billion in sales, below the estimated 17 cents per share. The company also projected net sales of $4.7-$4.8 billion for 2025, aligning with estimates, but its forecasted adjusted per-share profit of 70-75 cents was substantially lower than the anticipated 94 cents. MarketWatch

Market Trends: Facing profitability challenges, Grocery Outlet has revised its expansion plans, reducing the number of new store openings from over 50 to 33-35 in 2025. This strategic shift includes employee layoffs and the cancellation of planned warehouse improvements, aiming to streamline operations and regain profitability. Despite these challenges, the company experienced a 10% increase in net sales and a 3% rise in comparable store sales in 2024. MarketWatch+1The Sun+1MarketWatch+1

In a move to support local communities, Grocery Outlet announced plans to open a new $5 million store in San Francisco's North Beach neighborhood by early 2026. This development aims to provide affordable groceries in an area that has faced a shortage of reasonably priced shopping options. SFGate

Overall, Grocery Outlet continues to adapt to market conditions, focusing on operational efficiency and strategic growth to maintain its position as a leading discount retailer in the U.S.

9. Publix Supermarkets

Publix Super Markets, Inc., commonly known as Publix, is a prominent employee-owned American supermarket chain headquartered in Lakeland, Florida. Founded in 1930 by George W. Jenkins, Publix has grown to become the largest employee-owned company in the United States, with a strong presence across the Southeastern region.Publix Corporate+4Wikipedia+4The Sun+4

Website: Publix Super Markets

Membership Plans: Unlike some of its competitors, Publix does not operate on a membership-based model. All customers are welcome to shop without any membership fees. However, Publix offers a free program called "Club Publix," which provides personalized communications, digital coupons, and updates on special offers to its members.

Locations: As of November 2024, Publix operates 1,391 stores across eight Southeastern states:The Sun+1Wikipedia+1The Sun+1

Florida: 874 stores
Georgia: 217 storesThe Sun+4Wikipedia+4Computer Sciences at UW-Madison+4
Alabama: 94 storesPublix Corporate+2The Sun+2Wikipedia+2
South Carolina: 69 storesWikipedia
Tennessee: 59 stores
North Carolina: 55 stores
Virginia: 22 stores
Kentucky: 1 store (opened on January 10, 2024, in Louisville)Wikipedia

The company continues to expand its footprint within these regions.

Employees and Benefits: Publix employs over 255,000 associates, making it a significant employer in the retail sector. As an employee-owned company, Publix offers its associates stock ownership opportunities, fostering a sense of ownership and commitment. In addition to competitive wages, employees benefit from comprehensive health insurance plans, retirement savings options, and career advancement programs. Publix's dedication to its workforce has earned it recognition as a top employer; in 2024, it was featured on PEOPLE's "100 Companies That Care" list, highlighting its commitment to employees and community welfare. Wikipedia+1Publix Corporate+1Wikipedia+1 People

Stock Symbol: Publix is a privately held company, and its stock is not publicly traded. Ownership is limited to current and former employees and members of the Jenkins family. As a result, there is no public stock symbol for Publix.The Sun+1Wikipedia+1The Sun+1

Specialization: Publix offers a wide range of products and services, including:

Grocery: Fresh produce, dairy, bakery, deli, meat, and seafood.
Pharmacy: Prescription services, immunizations, and health screenings.
Floral: A variety of fresh flowers and arrangements.
Event Planning: Catering services and assistance for special occasions.
Online Shopping and Home Delivery: Convenient online ordering with options for home delivery or curbside pickup.

Publix is renowned for its customer service and quality products, consistently ranking high in customer satisfaction surveys. In 2025, it tied for the top spot in a national survey of favorite grocery stores, praised for its organization, competitive pricing, and positive shopping experience. Food & Wine

Market Capitalization: As a private entity, Publix does not publicly disclose its market capitalization. However, the company's financial strength is evident, with retail sales reaching $54.5 billion in 2022. The Sun+1Publix Corporate+1The Sun+1

Profitability: In the third quarter of 2024, Publix reported sales of $14.6 billion, a 4.9% increase from the same period in 2023. Net earnings for this quarter were $1.1 billion, marking a 31.7% increase from the previous year. Comparable store sales rose by 3.4% during this period. Publix Corporate+2Publix Corporate+2Publix Corporate+2

Market Trends: Publix continues to expand its presence in the Southeastern United States, with strategic store openings, including its first location in Kentucky in early 2024. The company's commitment to quality, customer service, and community involvement has solidified its reputation as a leading supermarket chain. Despite economic fluctuations, Publix's employee-owned structure and focus on customer satisfaction have contributed to its resilience and sustained growth in the competitive grocery industry.

In summary, Publix Super Markets stands out as a major player in the U.S. grocery sector, distinguished by its employee ownership model, extensive product offerings, and unwavering dedication to both customers and employees.

10. Wegmans Food Markets

Wegmans Food Markets, Inc. is a privately-owned American supermarket chain renowned for its commitment to quality products and exceptional customer service. Established in 1916 in Rochester, New York, Wegmans has grown to operate 111 stores across the East Coast of the United States. Forbes+1Wikipedia+1Forbes+1

Website: Wegmans

Membership Plans: Wegmans does not require a membership to shop in its stores. However, customers can sign up for a free Shoppers Club account, which offers digital coupons, personalized offers, and the ability to track purchases for easier shopping.

Locations: Wegmans stores are located in New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Virginia, Maryland, Massachusetts, North Carolina, Delaware, and Washington, D.C. Wikipedia+1Wegmans+1Wikipedia+1

Wegmans is a privately-held company.

Specialization: Wegmans offers a wide range of products, including fresh produce, bakery items, seafood, floral products, prepared foods, and pharmacy services. The company emphasizes high-quality, often locally sourced products, and provides a variety of organic and specialty items to cater to diverse customer preferences.

Market Trends: Wegmans has consistently been recognized for its positive workplace culture and community involvement. In 2024, it was featured on PEOPLE's "100 Companies That Care" list, highlighting its commitment to employees and the communities it serves. Additionally, 91% of Wegmans employees have reported it as a great place to work, significantly higher than the average U.S. company rating of 57%. Great Place to Work People

In summary, Wegmans Food Markets continues to uphold its reputation as a leading supermarket chain by focusing on quality products, exceptional customer service, and a strong commitment to community and employee well-being.