Germany has five major supermarket chains covering most of the country. Each has a distinct positioning on price, quality, and range. Knowing which to use for what saves money without sacrificing food quality.
Aldi (Nord and Süd)
Aldi operates two separate companies — Aldi Nord covers northern and western Germany; Aldi Süd covers the south and east. Prices are 20 to 30% below German average. The range is limited to around 1,500 items (compared to 10,000+ at Edeka), but most daily essentials are covered. Own-brand products make up 95% of stock. Aldi Süd consistently outperforms Aldi Nord in taste tests. Best for: dry goods, dairy, basic fruit and vegetables, and household cleaning products.
Lidl
Lidl competes directly with Aldi on price. The range is slightly wider, and the bakery section (in-store baking, fresh bread and pastries) is usually better than Aldi's. Lidl's weekly offers (Aktionsware) include good-value clothing, kitchen equipment, and tools — useful for students setting up a flat. Best for: bread, weekly promotions, slightly broader range than Aldi.
Rewe
Rewe is Germany's most convenient supermarket chain by location density. Found in smaller towns, city centres, and train stations (Rewe To Go format). Prices are 15 to 25% higher than Aldi but the range and fresh produce quality is better. Rewe operates until 10pm in many locations when competitors close earlier. Best for: fresh meat and fish, higher-end ready meals, evening shopping, and locations without an Aldi nearby.
Edeka
Edeka is Germany's biggest supermarket group by revenue. Individual stores vary in quality and range since Edeka is a cooperative of independent retailers. The better Edeka stores stock international foods (Asian sauces, Middle Eastern products), specialty cheeses, better wine selections, and organic ranges. Prices are the highest of the five. Best for: when you want quality and range, international ingredients, and organic produce without going to a specialist store.
Netto (Marken-Discount)
Netto sits between Aldi/Lidl and Rewe/Edeka on price. Owned by Edeka. Wider range than the discounters with lower prices than the full-service chains. Good option in areas without an Aldi or Lidl nearby.
Practical Shopping Strategy
- Weekly basics (pasta, rice, oils, cleaning supplies, dairy, eggs): Aldi or Lidl
- Fresh meat, fish, specialty products: Rewe or Edeka
- Asian ingredients (soy sauce, rice vinegar, tofu): China-Supermarkt (Asian grocery) — far cheaper than any German chain
- Organic: Aldi Bio and Lidl Bio are certified organic at discounter prices — usually just as good as Rewe Bio at 30% lower cost
Opening Hours
Most supermarkets: Monday to Saturday 7am to 10pm. Sundays: closed (all major chains). Exceptions: supermarkets inside train stations (Hauptbahnhof) operate Sundays legally. Rewe To Go at stations often runs until midnight.
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