Want to know why people in the US get excited about a trip to the market? It’s simple. The largest grocery chains in the US have turned grocery shopping from dull errands into adventures full of deals, fresh produce, and everything tasty under one roof.
Grab that reusable bag, because this year, 2025, is all about beating inflation, getting the freshest apples, and sharing a laugh over aisle mishaps.
From Walmart’s super-size style to the warm welcome at Publix, these grocery giants turn shopping into smiles for families everywhere.
Top 15 Largest Grocery Chains in the US in 2025
Here are the largest grocery chains in the US making headlines and shaping the way America shops. Each one offers something unique, but they all focus on customer satisfaction, a wide variety, and expanding nationwide reach.
1. Walmart
- Founded: 1962
- CEO: Doug McMillon
- Annual Revenue: $681 billion
- Headquarters: Bentonville, Arkansas
- Parent Organization: Walmart Inc.
Walmart’s rise in grocery is nothing short of legendary. Not only does it operate next-generation Supercenters, but it’s also revolutionizing how people shop by blending digital and in-person convenience. Walmart now transforms the shopping trip by acting as a local grocer, thanks to super-fast online ordering and pickup, shoppers can get their fruit and pantry staples quicker than at smaller stores. Most traditional supermarkets face tough choices with online sales, but Walmart invested in building its own network and data tools, which let it personalize deals, keep shelves stocked, and save shoppers money. Walmart’s success in digital grocery sales topped the charts, finally turning a profit in its US e-commerce this year.
2. Kroger
- Founded: 1883
- CEO: Rodney McMullen
- Annual Revenue: $147.123 billion
- Headquarters: Cincinnati, Ohio
- Parent Organization: The Kroger Co.
Kroger has served generations of shoppers with a knack for predicting food trends and adapting. Their “Our Brands” range gives shoppers great value on hard-to-find flavors, from spicy hot peppers to gourmet fermented foods. Kroger doesn’t just sell groceries; it sets trends every year, spotlighting what’s about to fly off American shelves. Kroger’s massive presence in several states means it can test new foods and ideas, then bring the best ones nationwide. In some areas, over half of shoppers visit a Kroger store regularly, making it a local hero for foodies and families alike.
3. Costco
- Founded: 1983
- CEO: Ron Vachris
- Annual Revenue: $234 billion (retail & food sales)
- Headquarters: Issaquah, Washington
- Parent Organization: Costco Wholesale Corporation
Costco wins customer loyalty with its exclusive membership model. Shoppers pay to enter, showing deep trust and commitment to the brand. Costco’s famous “treasure hunt” shopping experience means every visit brings surprises, from luxury finds to fun limited-time bargains. Members love the hassle-free return policy, too: almost anything can be brought back, no questions asked, even after a year. Costco keeps the shelves stocked with only the best, so members know the quality meets their standards. The renewal rate for memberships sits above 92%, making Costco’s community one of the most loyal in all retail.
4. Albertsons Companies
- Founded: 1939
- CEO: Susan Morris
- Annual Revenue: $80 billion
- Headquarters: Boise, Idaho
- Parent Organization: Albertsons Companies, Inc.
Albertsons pours energy into innovation, focusing on digital transformation and personalized shopping. Their new global technology center in Bengaluru, India, boosts progress by developing custom tech solutions for a seamless shopping journey. Albertsons has a robust loyalty program, with more than 34 million active members who get special offers tailored just for them. Beyond high tech, Albertsons supports communities through charity, food donations, and sustainability programs. The company has pledged millions for local food banks and cut back on plastic by over 20%. This leadership in both tech and caring makes Albertsons a standout player.
5. Target
- Founded: 1902
- CEO: Brian Cornell
- Annual Revenue: $106 billion
- Headquarters: Minneapolis, Minnesota
- Parent Organization: Target Corporation
Target builds grocery success differently, by blending playful innovation and strong digital growth. Its own grocery brand, Good & Gather, added 600 new items this year, helping people fill carts with exciting options. Target’s distribution network is expanding with new centers, letting them keep popular food constantly in stock and improve convenience during busy shopping times. Even when sales dip, Target pushes forward, investing billions into new stores, technology upgrades, and better customer loyalty perks. Collaborations with pop culture icons and new checkout tech make Target’s grocery aisles a must-see for shoppers eager for fresh experiences.
6. ALDI
- Founded: 1946
- CEO: Atty McGrath (US operations)
- Annual Revenue: $89 billion
- Headquarters: Essen, Germany
- Parent Organization: ALDI Einkauf GmbH & Co.
ALDI’s success story in the US is powered by boldness and smart strategy. The chain launched an unprecedented expansion in 2025, opening over 225 new stores and integrating former Winn-Dixie and Harveys locations into the ALDI format. Their “less is more” model, focused on frugality, efficiency, and straightforward shopping, means stores are easy to navigate and loaded only with best-selling products. ALDI continues to draw bigger crowds, with store visits shooting up 7 percent in 2025. Shoppers love the company’s simple approach, quirky weekly specials, and fun product swaps. ALDI’s cult-like fanbase, with millions sharing tips and hauls online, proves it’s more than just a grocery stop; it’s an experience.
7. Publix Super Markets
- Founded: 1930
- CEO: Kevin Murphy
- Annual Revenue: $60.2 billion
- Headquarters: Lakeland, Florida
- Parent Organization: Publix Super Markets, Inc.
Publix sets the standard for customer service above all else. Every employee, from cashier to manager, is trained to “never knowingly disappoint” a customer; their refund policy is generous, and their service is legendary. Publix stands out because employees own shares in the company, giving everyone a personal stake in customer happiness and company success. This “family” environment means workers stay for decades and friendships flourish at work. Publix wins glowing reviews on satisfaction surveys year after year, and customer recommendations spread far and wide without spending much on advertising. Their stores are seen as safe havens for good food and great service.
8. Sam’s Club
- Founded: 1983
- CEO: Chris Nicholas
- Annual Revenue: $90.2 billion
- Headquarters: Bentonville, Arkansas
- Parent Organization: Walmart Inc.
Sam’s Club boosts its members’ savings with unique perks. The chain rolled out special membership deals in 2025, letting first-time shoppers join for only $25 and scoring free pizzas via the app. The member-first model is loaded with exclusive sales, fuel discounts, and health benefits. Shoppers love the Scan & Go app, making checkout fast and easy. Plus members unlock premium rewards like free shipping, curbside pickup, and cashback on qualifying purchases. Sam’s stands out for providing big savings on everyday essentials, gift cards, and even offers discounts on services like wedding planning.
9. Trader Joe’s
- Founded: 1967
- CEO: Bryan Palbaum
- Annual Revenue: $15.6 billion
- Headquarters: Monrovia, California
- Parent Organization: T.A.C.T. Holding, Inc.
Trader Joe’s rides the wave of pop culture and social media popularity like no other grocery store. The chain avoids online sales, betting instead on a curated in-store experience with exclusive, ever-changing products. Shoppers line up for new snacks, viral merchandise (mini tote bags fetch huge resale prices), and cheerful tropical décor. Even college students rave about TJ’s budget-friendly selection on social media, sharing meal ideas and favorite finds. Unique flavors, affordable produce, and friendly store vibes make Trader Joe’s a beloved destination and a leader in foot traffic growth, nearly twelve percent year-over-year in 2025.
10. Whole Foods Market
- Founded: 1980
- CEO: Jason Buechel
- Annual Revenue: $20 billion
- Headquarters: Austin, Texas
- Parent Organization: Amazon.com, Inc.
Whole Foods Market strengthens its reputation for sustainability, pushing new initiatives like the Prairie Strips Project that promote biodiversity and eco-friendly farming on supplier farms. The company partners with Mad Agriculture to build “biodiversity highways,” supporting hundreds of acres of pollinator-friendly farmland. Whole Foods avoids single-use plastic, promotes upcycled food waste solutions, and supports fair labor practices through programs like Sourced for Good. Their focus on climate-smart farming and regenerative agriculture sets a high bar for other grocers, making conscious shopping easier for everyone who visits the store.
11. Food Lion
- Founded: 1957
- CEO: Meg Ham
- Annual Revenue: $13.7 billion
- Headquarters: Salisbury, North Carolina
- Parent Organization: Ahold Delhaize
Food Lion began as a small-town grocer in North Carolina but became known for its “Easy, Fresh and Affordable” motto. Their recent push into digital coupons and app-based loyalty programs boosted value for budget-minded families. Food Lion also leads “Food Lion Feeds,” a charity that supplied millions of meals to local food banks during 2025’s tough cost-of-living months. This hands-on community role makes Food Lion much more than just a supermarket.
12. Safeway Inc.
- Founded: 1915
- CEO: Susan Morris
- Annual Revenue: Part of Albertsons’ total / $22.5 billion
- Headquarters: Pleasanton, California
- Parent Organization: Albertsons Companies, Inc.
Safeway is celebrated for fresh bakery items and in-house brands. Their wellness journey took off in 2025, with pharmacists on-site and “Just for U” deals powered by shopper purchase history. Safeway partners with urban farms to deliver city-grown vegetables, and the stores host frequent “Healthy Eating” workshops open to all ages. Stores doubled down on eco-friendly packaging, setting a trend for groceries that care about sustainability as much as savings.
13. Save A Lot
- Founded: 1977
- CEO: Bill Moran
- Annual Revenue: $2.6 billion
- Headquarters: St. Ann, Missouri
- Parent Organization: SAL Acquisition Corp.
Save A Lot’s no-frills approach takes direct aim at rising inflation. The chain expanded deep discount sections and started “Save-A-Lot Fresh Finds,” featuring surprise deals on produce and sources from regional growers. Independent store owners shape each location to fit local tastes, from soul food to farm-fresh. Their business model allows small communities to keep local control, growing into a grassroots icon with a national footprint.
14. IGA (Independent Grocers Alliance)
- Founded: 1926
- CEO: John Ross
- Annual Revenue: $1 billion
- Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois
- Parent Organization: IGA, Inc.
IGA stores thrive by being hyper-local. Each location is independently owned, so stores often carry area specialties and seasonal items that national chains can’t match. IGA launched “Hometown Proud” events in 2025, where stores hosted community markets, barbecues, and school supply drives, blending groceries with local spirit. Their “IGA Exclusive Brands” keep prices steady and let stores compete with the biggest chains, even as they stay rooted in neighborhoods.
15. H-E-B
- Founded: 1905
- CEO: Howard Butt 3
- Annual Revenue: $46 billion
- Headquarters: San Antonio, Texas
- Parent Organization: H-E-B Grocery Company
H-E-B’s Texas-sized vision turned grocery shopping into a cultural event. In 2025, the chain deepened its focus on local suppliers, Texan beef, fresh tortillas, and unique salsas dominate shelves. H-E-B hosts live cooking demos and food parades celebrating the state’s rich food traditions. Employees treat shoppers like family, and the company won awards for disaster relief after hurricanes, rapidly delivering food to neighborhoods in need. H-E-B’s playful Texas-themed product launches are a hit each season, gaining fans across the Southwest.
Facts, Stats, and Sources
- Walmart holds nearly 25% of the grocery market share.
- Walmart alone sees more than 255 million weekly shoppers in 2025, far more than any competitor.
- Kroger’s loyalty program engages over 60 million households.
- Aldi plans to expand to 2,800 stores in the US by 2028..
Conclusion
Grocery shopping in the US should never feel boring. The largest grocery chains in the US keep changing the game: pushing new products, cutting prices, and rolling out the red carpet for every shopper. Choosing a top grocer in 2025 means picking more than just apples and bread; it’s supporting innovation, communities, and better living. So keep that shopping spirit high and let the largest grocery chains in the US fuel your next tasty adventure, one easy checkout at a time.
FAQs
1. Who are the big 4 retailers in the US?
Ans. The “big 4” are Walmart, Kroger, Costco, and Albertsons, all part of the largest grocery chains in the US with huge market shares and brand recognition.
2. What is the largest grocery chain in the US?
Ans. Walmart takes the lead as the largest grocery chain in the US, based on outlets, revenue, and customer base.
3. Who are the top 5 supermarkets?
Ans. The top 5 supermarket chains in 2025 are Walmart, Kroger, Costco, Albertsons, and ALDI, all leaders among the largest grocery chains in the US.
4. Who is the largest grocery distributor in the US?
Ans. C&S Wholesale Grocers remains the largest grocery distributor, supplying many chains behind the scenes.
5. Who is bigger, Walmart or Amazon?
Ans. Walmart is bigger than Amazon in revenue and store count, making it the largest grocery chain in the US in 2025, though Amazon is growing fast and now owns Whole Foods Market.
