2024: What’s the Cheapest Supermarkets?

Identifying Spain’s most cost-effective supermarkets is key to saving money on your local grocery trips. In recent years, food prices have soared globally, and Spain is no exception. This trend is particularly evident now that VAT (referred to as IVA in Spanish) has been reinstated on essential groceries starting October 1st, after a period of reductions aimed at easing the cost of living crisis.

Data from Spain’s primary consumer advocacy group, OCU, indicates that the average price increase in Spanish supermarkets over the past year was 2.9 percent. This rate is significantly lower than the 12.1 and 12.7 percent hikes observed in the preceding two years, yet it still represents a moderate increase.

OCU’s research also shows that about two-thirds of products in Spain have seen price increases, often exceeding inflation rates. Notably, olive oil, a staple in Spanish kitchens, has experienced price hikes of 70 to 80 percent depending on the brand. Significant price increases have also been seen in orange juice and bananas.

On the brighter side, 37 percent of products have decreased in price over the past year, a substantial increase from just about 10 percent the previous year. Consequently, many shoppers are now more proactive, exploring various supermarket brands to find the best value.

Understanding which products are rising in cost, which are becoming more affordable, and identifying the most economical supermarkets are crucial for cost savings.

An OCU study, after surveying 1,070 supermarkets in 65 Spanish cities including online platforms of major chains, has unveiled the ten most budget-friendly supermarkets in Spain. Alcampo tops the list, providing the lowest prices in 25 cities across the country.