Trader Joe's Surpasses Publix as America's Favorite Grocery Store

The beloved grocery chain now tops the American Customer Satisfaction Index with an 86% satisfaction rate.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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According to the latest 2026 data from the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI), Trader Joe's has overtaken Publix as the No. 1 favorite grocery store in America. Trader Joe's earned an impressive 86% customer satisfaction rate, while Publix came in second at 84%. Other top-ranking grocers include H-E-B, Sam's Club, Aldi, Costco, and Whole Foods.

Why it matters

Trader Joe's has built a devoted following over the years for its unique product selection, affordable gourmet items, and fun, quirky store experience. This ranking solidifies the grocery chain's status as a beloved and trusted brand among American consumers.

The details

Trader Joe's was founded in 1967 in Pasadena, California and now has over 560 locations across 42 states and Washington, D.C. The largest Trader Joe's store is in New York City, spanning 30,000 square feet, while the smallest is in South Pasadena, California at just 4,000 square feet. Some of the chain's most popular year-round items include Everything but the Bagel Seasoning, Speculoos Cookie Butter, Mandarin Orange Chicken, and Cauliflower Gnocchi, as well as a wide selection of affordable wines and frozen snacks. Trader Joe's also draws customers in with its highly anticipated seasonal holiday products.

  • The latest 2026 data from the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI) was released in February 2026.

The players

Trader Joe's

A beloved grocery store chain founded in 1967 in Pasadena, California that now has over 560 locations across 42 states and Washington, D.C.

Publix

A grocery store chain that was previously ranked as the No. 1 favorite grocery store in America before being surpassed by Trader Joe's.

H-E-B

A grocery store chain that was ranked No. 3 on the American Customer Satisfaction Index with an 83% satisfaction rate.

Sam's Club

A membership warehouse club that was ranked No. 4 on the American Customer Satisfaction Index with an 82% satisfaction rate.

American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI)

An organization that conducts an annual survey to determine the top-ranked grocery stores in America based on customer satisfaction.

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The takeaway

Trader Joe's success in surpassing Publix as America's favorite grocery store demonstrates the power of creating a unique, enjoyable shopping experience for customers. The chain's commitment to affordable gourmet products, seasonal specialties, and an overall fun brand identity has solidified its status as a beloved and trusted grocery destination for millions of Americans.