For many of us, grocery shopping is a regular part of our weekly routine. Although we all have our own shopping habits, it’s fun to learn how other consumers approach their grocery trips and what they value most during the shopping experience.
I recently came across some interesting findings in FMI’s U.S. Grocery Shopper Trends report and thought I’d share a few highlights with you. The report takes a look at how people shop in person for groceries. I hope you find the info as interesting as I did! Be sure to share your thoughts in the comments, I’d love to hear what you think.
🛒Grocery Shopping Experience
While online grocery shopping continues to grow, many shoppers still prefer visiting a physical grocery store, and it remains an important part of the grocery shopping experience.
54% always shop in-store when shopping at their primary grocery store
20% mostly shop in-store
15% shop in-store and online about the same amount
7% mostly shop online
4% always shop online
🛒Why In-Person Shopping Matters
For many, grocery shopping is about more than simply crossing items off a list. Shopping in person provides a greater sense of control, especially when choosing perishable items like produce and meat, while also providing opportunities to interact with others and discover new products.
According to FMI, if shoppers could no longer shop in person, the things they would miss the most include:
Being able to personally select products
Human connection
Enjoying the shopping experience
The variety available in-store
Lower costs
Discovering new products
Ease of shopping
🏪What Shoppers Want From Their Grocery Store
A positive shopping experience keeps customers coming back. When asked what they value most, shoppers mentioned these in-store features:
A clean, neat store
The ability to examine produce up close
An easy shopping experience
Clearly marked aisles and departments
These simple features can make a big difference in creating a pleasant shopping experience.
📱Digital Tools Are Part of the Shopping Trip
Even when shoppers visit the store in person, many rely on digital tools to help them shop. Some of the most common ways shoppers stay digitally connected while grocery shopping include:
Using retailer apps
Searching the web for product information
Visiting retailer or manufacturer websites
Digital resources have become a convenient way for shoppers make informed purchasing decisions both before they shop and while they’re shopping.
So, whether you prefer browsing the aisles or ordering groceries online, today’s shopping experience offers more choices than ever before.
✅NCP Panel Member Reminder
However you shop, whether in-store, online, or both, be sure to report your shopping trips each week. Consistent reporting helps your reward points add up, while making a valuable contribution to our research.
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Not an NCP panel member? Visit the Join NCP section of the blog for more information and the link to sign up! You too can make your consumer voice heard!
Regards,
Taylor
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The Grocery Store Effect
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I prefer in store shopping because it gives a chance to personally see and pick my products. I like interacting with other people too. Sometimes, you run into people you haven’t seen in a long time.
Hi Taylor,
I personally like shopping in person. I like to see what I am buying, especially fresh products….produce, dairy & meat. It gives me the chance to see new products and any special unadvertised sales my store might have. I have tried pick up, however I still go into the store for my fresh items.
I prefer shopping in store because it is quick for me. I also like to see and touch my purchases, because only I know what I like.