Top 10 Specialty Food Retailers in the United States by Market Share

1. Whole Foods Market

Whole Foods Market is one of the largest specialty food retailers in the United States, known for its high-quality organic and natural products. As of 2020, Whole Foods Market had a market share of approximately 45% in the specialty food retail industry. The company was acquired by Amazon in 2017 for $13.7 billion, further solidifying its position in the market.

2. Trader Joe’s

Trader Joe’s is another popular specialty food retailer in the United States, specializing in unique and affordable gourmet products. With a market share of around 20%, Trader Joe’s has established a loyal customer base through its diverse product offerings and quirky branding strategies.

3. Sprouts Farmers Market

Sprouts Farmers Market focuses on offering fresh, natural, and organic products at competitive prices. With a market share of approximately 10%, Sprouts Farmers Market has experienced steady growth in recent years by expanding its store footprint and enhancing its product selection to meet consumer demand for healthier options.

4. The Fresh Market

The Fresh Market is a specialty food retailer that emphasizes quality, freshness, and customer service. With a market share of around 5%, The Fresh Market caters to a more upscale demographic with its gourmet food offerings and personalized shopping experience.

5. Dean & DeLuca

Dean & DeLuca is a high-end specialty food retailer known for its premium gourmet products and luxury shopping experience. Despite facing financial difficulties in recent years, Dean & DeLuca still maintains a market share of approximately 3% due to its iconic brand and loyal customer base.

6. Wegmans Food Markets

Wegmans Food Markets is a regional specialty food retailer with a market share of around 2% in the United States. Known for its extensive selection of high-quality products and exceptional customer service, Wegmans Food Markets has garnered a strong reputation for excellence in the industry.

7. Fairway Market

Fairway Market is a specialty food retailer that offers a wide range of gourmet, organic, and specialty products to its customers. With a market share of approximately 2%, Fairway Market has established a loyal following in the Northeastern United States by providing unique and high-quality food options.

8. Earth Fare

Earth Fare is a health-conscious specialty food retailer that focuses on providing organic, natural, and locally sourced products to its customers. With a market share of around 1%, Earth Fare has positioned itself as a leader in the clean eating movement and continues to attract consumers seeking healthier food options.

9. Fresh Thyme Farmers Market

Fresh Thyme Farmers Market is a specialty food retailer that offers fresh, organic, and natural products at affordable prices. With a market share of approximately 1%, Fresh Thyme Farmers Market has expanded rapidly in recent years by capitalizing on the growing demand for healthy and sustainable food options.

10. Erewhon Market

Erewhon Market is a specialty food retailer that specializes in organic, plant-based, and sustainable products. With a market share of around 1%, Erewhon Market has gained popularity among health-conscious consumers in California and beyond, positioning itself as a leader in the natural foods industry.
In conclusion, the specialty food retail industry in the United States is highly competitive, with a diverse range of retailers vying for market share through unique product offerings, quality standards, and customer service. While Whole Foods Market and Trader Joe’s dominate the market, other retailers such as Sprouts Farmers Market, The Fresh Market, and Dean & DeLuca continue to carve out their own niche in the industry. As consumer preferences shift towards healthier and more sustainable food options, specialty food retailers are likely to see continued growth and expansion in the years to come.