Italy grocery study: Eurospin ranked most affordable retailer

A study conducted by Altroconsumo across 67 Italian cities reveals significant variations in grocery costs among 1,158 retail locations, including supermarkets, hypermarkets, and discount stores. Based on 1.5 million price points collected between February and March 2026, the research indicates that strategic shopping choices regarding retailers and product types can save families up to 3,790 euros annually, representing approximately 40% of the estimated average expenditure.

Eurospin was identified as the most affordable chain, serving as the baseline for the study's convenience index. Discount retailers occupied most of the top rankings, while traditional supermarkets faced higher costs. Ipercoop was noted as the most affordable traditional brand, with an index of 117, indicating prices 17% higher than the baseline.

While inflation has slowed compared to previous years—with prices rising by 1% between February and March 2026 compared to the previous year—the study highlights that consumer spending remains heavily impacted by retail pricing structures.