Grocery retail in 2026: 7 trends you can’t ignore
31 October 2025Seven trends will define the industry in 2026. Learn how your business can adapt and stay ahead in our new report, ‘Global Trends 2026’.
The industry is being reshaped by a wave of strategic trends, from AI and health to cybersecurity and sustainability. Now the race is on to turn disruption into opportunity and change into growth.
In our new report, ‘Global trends 2026’, our Retail Futures team identifies the seven strategic trends retailers must focus on next year, explains how the trends will evolve, and provides practical advice on how to respond to them.
External forces shaping the industry
The global food and grocery industry is poised for another year of profound transformation, which will be caused by five powerful external forces:
Geopolitical and economic volatility:
Retailers face unpredictable trading conditions with geopolitical tensions, regulatory changes, and persistent cost pressures.
Technological acceleration:
AI, automation, and data integration are revolutionising operations, but as digital touchpoints expand, so do concerns around cybersecurity and resilience.
Shifting demographics and expectations:
Population changes, cultural diversity, and digital disruption are reshaping expectations, driving demand for personalised, fast, value-driven experiences.
Health and wellbeing priorities:
Rising consumer focus on wellness is driving innovation across products and services, while tighter regulations are reshaping how brands compete.
Climate and environmental disruption:
Climate shocks, regulatory pressures, and rising consumer expectations are pushing retailers to strengthen supply chains, cut waste, and boost efficiency.
These forces are creating or feeding seven critical trends that will shape industry dynamics and retailers’ strategic choices in 2026.
Trends shaping 2026 in food
Cybersecurity becomes retail’s frontline.
AI as the engine of the retail revolution.
Retail media comes of age.
Retailers race to capture the world on their shelves.
The convenience revolution.
Playing a meaningful role for more missions.
The war on waste.
For each trend, the report explains their impacts on the industry, predicts how they will play out, and gives clear directions on how to manage and capitalise on them.
Toby Pickard, Retail Futures Senior Partner, commented:
“This report highlights where retailers can focus to build resilience, unlock efficiency, and stay relevant. Success will come by acting with intent: aligning strategy to shifting missions, embracing technology as a growth engine, and responding to disruption with agility and confidence.”
Find out more
Start preparing now by downloading the full ‘Global trends 2026’ report.
A free preview of the report is also available for non-subscribers.
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IGD’s Retail Futures team are experts in helping businesses prepare for what’s next, navigate challenges, and identify opportunities.
Email us today for a free consultation about your specific circumstances.