Albert Heijn has extended its lead in the Netherlands supermarket market, increasing its market share to 38.2% in 2025, up from 37.7% a year earlier, according to NielsenIQ.
The retailer outperformed the wider market for the seventh consecutive year, at a time when households remain focused on food affordability and value. Albert Heijn said consistent investment in pricing, product quality, and convenience continues to drive customer loyalty.
Healthier and more sustainable products again supported growth. In 2025, 38.9% of products sold carried a Nutri-Score A or B. Items aligned with the Dutch Nutrition Centre’s Schijf van Vijf guidelines accounted for 32.2% of sales.
The supermarket expanded its range of whole-grain, plant-based, and hybrid products, while fresh meal solutions were adjusted to include more vegetables per portion as standard. Product reformulation led to further reductions in salt, saturated fat, and sugar across the assortment.
Albert Heijn also continued to grow its physical and online network. During the year, 14 new stores opened in the Netherlands and five in Flanders, bringing the total estate to 1,288 locations, including 185 Albert Heijn to-go stores. Online grocery sales recorded strong double-digit growth, driven by rising customer numbers and order volumes.
Technology played a larger role in daily operations and customer experience. Active users of the AH app exceeded 5.5 million, while digital tools were used to improve availability, personalise shopping, and reduce food waste through targeted discounting of near-expiry products.
Sustainability initiatives progressed across the supply chain. Organic fruit and vegetable sales reached 10.8% of turnover, exceeding the company’s 2026 target a year early. Food waste was reduced by 350,000 kilograms, and 3.5 million products were donated to Dutch food banks. Emission-free delivery expanded to 30 regions.
Looking ahead, Albert Heijn said it will continue to focus on affordability, healthier food choices, and further sustainability gains in 2026, supported by continued investment in technology and range development.
Editor’s Note: This article is based on Albert Heijn’s 2025 performance update and publicly reported market data. It focuses on retail performance, store and online growth, product strategy, and operational priorities within the Netherlands supermarket sector. No projections or commentary beyond disclosed information have been added.
