USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards has recognized The Fresh Market as the “Best Supermarket in America” for 2021. A panel of 10Best local experts and contributors nominated their favorite American supermarkets based on value, selection, and service.
Readers could then cast their vote for their favorite supermarket once per day for 28 days through the 10Best website.
“Out of the hundreds of supermarkets in America, we are thrilled to be voted number one,” said Jason Potter, President and CEO of The Fresh Market. “Over the last year, we have immersed ourselves in achieving our goal of becoming one of America’s Most Loved Brands, and this award proves that customers recognize our improvements and we greatly appreciate their business and support.”
The Fresh Market’s rich heritage dates back to 1982 when founders Ray and Beverly Berry opened the first store in Greensboro, North Carolina, after returning from a trip to Europe with a vision to emulate the charm and essence of the European-style fresh food market.
The initial store differentiated itself from conventional supermarkets by offering a farmer’s market atmosphere and intimate epicurean experience, and it became the blueprint for the 159 stores that stand today.
As The Fresh Market’s roots as a specialty retailer evolved to meet the needs of customers, it has become a destination for those looking to discover the best, including convenient, restaurant-quality meals, hand-picked produce, premium baked goods, fresh-cut flowers, custom-cut meats, and carefully curated offerings for holidays and special occasions.
The personalized shopping experience is enhanced by The Fresh Market’s dedicated team members, who are a hallmark of The Fresh Market, providing exceptional hospitality.
“This achievement is a true testament to our team members who offer impeccable guest service every day,” said Potter. “We’re looking forward to continuing our mission of offering the highest quality fresh food and creating the best experience for our guests in 2021 and beyond.”
According to USA Today, readers chose Hy-Vee supermarket in second place and Lidl in third place.
Hy-Vee is an employee-owned supermarket chain. It was founded in 1930 in Beaconsfield, Iowa, by Charles Hyde and David Vredenburg. Now, the store chain has more than 240 supermarkets in Iowa, Illinois, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, South Dakota, Nebraska, and Wisconsin.
The German supermarket chain Lidl is known for selling around 80% private label products, offering shoppers a varied assortment from different parts of the world.
Lidl’s top 3 win comes shortly after being ranked a leading grocer by Food & Wine Magazine for the second year, as well as the fastest-growing retailer in the National Retail Federation’s Hot 100 Retailers list.
Lidl established its U.S. headquarters in Arlington County, Virginia, in June 2015, and today has more than 140 stores in nine East Coast states.
The list of the top 10 supermarket winners can be found online here.