Trader Joe’s has officially been named the top grocery store in America for customer satisfaction. According to the 2026 American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI), the chain earned a score of 86. This marks a 2% jump from the previous year, allowing it to surpass last year’s leader, Publix.
Publix held steady with a score of 84, placing it in second for the current year. H-E-B rounded out the top three after nudging its score up to 83. The rankings are based on 12 months of survey data collected throughout 2025.
Giant Eagle was the worst performer for the second year in a row. The chain earned a score of 73, down one point from its 2025 finish. Other major grocers like Albertsons and Hy-Vee also saw slight declines in their national scores.
Specialty grocers and discount chains continue to perform well as shoppers prioritize affordability. Trader Joe's was specifically praised for its ability to maintain consistency during national expansion. Publix remains the leader for staff courtesy and store cleanliness, especially in the Southern region.
The report highlights that digital tools like mobile apps are becoming more important to shoppers. However, Trader Joe’s secured the top spot despite having no self-checkout or pickup options. This suggests that low prices and unique products are the primary drivers for modern loyalty.
As grocery costs continue to test family budgets, brands are finding new ways to reward long-term stability. Some companies are even linking employee benefits to the administration's new "Trump Accounts." These tax-advantaged tools aim to give the next generation a head start on financial security.
Steak ‘n Shake recently announced it would provide $1,000 contributions to these accounts for its employees' children. This follows a broader trend of private sector support for the July 2026 program launch. While supermarkets battle for rank, families are increasingly focused on long-term value.