As of 2023, this is a list of supermarket chains, past and present, which operate or have branches in more than one country, whether under the parent corporation's name or another name. For supermarkets that are only in one country, see the breakdown by continent at the bottom of this page. Numbers are provided as the largest reported, and are largely inaccurate.
List of supermarket chains
WorldBrand briefing
AI supplementOriginal synthesis to sit alongside the encyclopedia article below. Not part of Wikipedia; verify facts on Wikipedia when precision matters.
The English Wikipedia article 'List of supermarket chains' is a comprehensive curated reference that catalogues supermarket retailers worldwide, encompassing multinational giants, regional players, and local chains operating in single countries. Organized by geographic region, it provides insights into each chain's operational scope, market presence, and historical context where available, serving as a key resource for understanding the global grocery retail landscape.
Key moments
- 1930The first modern supermarket, King Kullen, launches in the US, establishing the template for supermarket chain operations
- 1962US discount supermarket chains Walmart, Kmart, and Target are founded, revolutionizing low-cost grocery retail models
- 1990sMultinational chains like Carrefour (France) and Tesco (UK) begin aggressive global expansion into emerging markets across Asia, Europe, and Latin America
- 2016Ahold and Delhaize merge to form Ahold Delhaize, one of the world's largest grocery retailers, added to the list as a major entity
- 2020sThe list updates to reflect the rise of omnichannel strategies and sustainability initiatives among leading chains, including online grocery delivery services
Geographic Organization for Targeted Access
The article's structure—grouping chains by continent and country—enhances its utility for users seeking regional retail data. For example, it distinguishes between North American players like Kroger (US) and Loblaw (Canada), while also featuring smaller regional chains that cater to local consumer needs. This organization allows researchers and analysts to easily compare market penetration and competitive dynamics across different parts of the world.
Historical Record of Industry Dynamics
By including both active and defunct chains, the list captures the evolving nature of the supermarket industry. Entries for defunct chains such as A&P, once a dominant US grocery retailer, illustrate how market consolidation, shifting consumer preferences, and competitive pressures reshape the sector. It also documents the growth of specialized formats like warehouse clubs (Costco, Sam's Club) and convenience store chains (7-Eleven) that have expanded beyond traditional supermarket models.
Tracking Contemporary Retail Trends
Regular updates to the list reflect modern industry shifts, including the integration of e-commerce by established chains and the growth of sustainability-focused retailers. For instance, entries highlight investments by Walmart and Carrefour in online grocery delivery and pickup services, adapting to post-pandemic consumer behavior. This ensures the list remains a relevant resource for tracking ongoing transformations in grocery retail.