Inflation, AI and the fight for consumer loyalty

[Viable Food News Desk]

Publisher: Supermarket News
Published: September 4, 2026
Source: Read at Supermarket News
Category: Food Access

Algolia surveyed 1,000 U.S. adults and found that 75% were stressed about grocery bills. Forty-two percent had switched to private labels, 36% had traded favorite brands for cheaper alternatives, and 44% did not necessarily have a go-to grocery store. Parents were more open to AI shopping agents than non-parents, at 71% versus 53%. The survey found that 56% would use AI to find and apply coupons, but more than 50% said grocery app information was not always reliable, and 66% would hesitate to trust an AI assistant from a grocer whose online experience was difficult to use or frequently showed out-of-stock or irrelevant products.

Why this matters: Independent grocers may face shoppers who compare prices and switch brands more readily. Accurate product information, real-time availability, useful coupon tools, and easier product discovery could help stores retain them.

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