Grocery

Grocery refers to goods intended for home consumption and the stores that sell them. Most commonly, groceries are food and beverages, but they also include household necessities such as cleaning products, toiletries, and personal care items. The term can describe both the items themselves and the retail businesses that stock and sell them, from small neighborhood shops to large supermarkets and online platforms.

Typical grocery categories include fresh produce, dairy and eggs, meat and seafood, bakery, canned and packaged foods, frozen foods, beverages, snacks, and nonfood items such as household cleaning products and personal care items. Retailers organize these products to meet daily and seasonal needs, and shoppers often plan purchases around inventory, sales, and promotions.

Retail formats vary by country but share common features: inventory is sourced from producers and distributors, stored in warehouses, and sold to consumers. The rise of supermarkets and hypermarkets in the 20th century expanded the range of products under one roof; in the 21st century, online grocery shopping and home delivery have grown rapidly, complemented by curbside pickup and mobile apps.

Trends in grocery include an emphasis on private-label brands, healthier or more sustainable options, and greater focus on local sourcing and organic products. Operational considerations include food safety and labeling regulations, including allergen disclosures and shelf-life dating, as retailers pursue efficiency through streamlined supply chains and omnichannel fulfillment.