The grocery sector in the United States is a cornerstone of retail, navigating evolving consumer habits, digital transformation, and macroeconomic shifts. Yet, despite challenges like inflation and the growing preference for online shopping, some grocery chains continue to thrive with robust foot traffic. What’s the secret sauce behind their success, and which brands are leading the charge?
In this blog, we’ll uncover insights into the top-performing grocery stores in the US, explore the factors driving their in-store customer visits, and how data-driven location strategies can help retailers stay ahead in a competitive market.
Key Takeaways
Walmart, Kroger, and Costco lead the pack in grocery store foot traffic across the US.
Walmart remains the go-to for everyday low prices and convenience, while Costco thrives on its treasure-hunt model and bulk savings.
Regional players like Publix and H-E-B continue to dominate in their strongholds, thanks to localized strategies and strong customer loyalty.
Grocery stores serving diverse customer segments—urban, suburban, and rural—show nuanced traffic trends, reflecting unique regional dynamics and shopper behaviors.
Weathering the Shifts: A Look at Grocery Store Foot Traffic
The grocery sector in the US has seen steady foot traffic despite economic uncertainties, fluctuating inflation, and the rise of digital grocery platforms. While e-commerce continues to nibble at in-store sales, foot traffic leaders like Walmart, Kroger, and Costco demonstrate that physical stores remain an essential part of the grocery experience for millions of Americans.
But who’s really driving traffic—and why? Let’s dive into the data.
1. Walmart: The Undisputed Foot Traffic Leader
Walmart’s vast store network, price leadership, and one-stop-shop convenience make it the dominant player in grocery foot traffic. With nearly 4,600 locations across the US, Walmart’s strategic placement in both urban centers and rural towns ensures it remains the go-to choice for budget-conscious shoppers.
Even as inflationary pressures persist, Walmart’s focus on everyday low prices resonates with customers seeking value, helping it maintain strong in-store traffic nationwide.
2. Kroger: Winning in Loyalty and Local Flavor
Kroger’s strength lies in its deep understanding of regional markets, robust loyalty programs, and private label offerings. Despite facing competition from discount grocers and digital platforms, Kroger continues to drive foot traffic, particularly in suburban and mid-sized markets where its brand resonates.
What’s keeping Kroger shoppers loyal? A blend of fresh produce, prepared meal solutions, and rewards programs tailored to customer preferences—offering a more personalized shopping experience than bigger chains can deliver.
3. Costco: The Bulk Buyer’s Paradise
Costco’s membership model continues to pay dividends. Shoppers flock to Costco not just for value, but for the thrill of the “treasure hunt” experience—discovering unexpected deals and seasonal finds.
While its footprint is smaller than Walmart’s, Costco sees dense foot traffic at its warehouse locations, particularly in urban and suburban markets where families and businesses stock up on bulk items.
4. Regional Standouts: Publix, H-E-B, and Wegmans
In the Southeast, Publix reigns supreme, with its community-focused approach, high service standards, and clean, well-stocked stores. H-E-B dominates Texas, combining local flair with strong private-label offerings. Meanwhile, Wegmans remains a Northeast favorite, known for its unique in-store experience and specialty product range.
These regional leaders thrive by tailoring their offerings to local tastes, emphasizing quality, and fostering a sense of community connection that larger national chains struggle to replicate.
Urban vs. Rural: A Tale of Two Audiences
Foot traffic trends also highlight key differences in audience profiles:
Walmart draws a diverse mix of shoppers from urban cores to rural communities.
Kroger and Publix dominate in suburban and regional markets where community ties are stronger.
Costco captures affluent suburban shoppers, with a skew toward higher-income households seeking bulk savings.
Understanding these nuances helps brands optimize their real estate strategy—whether it’s expanding into underserved markets or enhancing the in-store experience for specific audience segments.
Looking Ahead: Opportunities and Challenges
While foot traffic in grocery stores remains strong, challenges loom. Inflation, supply chain constraints, and shifting consumer preferences toward convenience and digital solutions will continue to shape the competitive landscape.
For grocers, the key to sustained success lies in:
Hyper-local strategies that adapt to regional needs
Data-driven site selection to ensure stores are positioned for maximum foot traffic
Enhancing the in-store experience to give customers reasons to visit beyond price
Final Thoughts
The grocery industry’s future belongs to those who understand their customers—and where they shop. At MapZot.AI, we empower grocery retailers to make smarter, faster, and more accurate decisions with AI-driven location intelligence. From identifying the best sites for new stores to optimizing existing portfolios, we help brands unlock hidden opportunities in their markets.
Want to stay ahead in the grocery foot traffic game? Let’s talk.
