Heat changes supermarket shopping behavior

Extreme heat temporarily changes consumer shopping behavior. People postpone purchases but spend more at supermarkets. Preferences also shift toward light and convenient meals. At the same time, refrigeration, home delivery, and staff face greater pressure. ABN AMRO describes these developments in a new retail analysis.

Growing demand for convenient meals

The June 2026 heat wave temporarily affected consumer spending. Total spending was four percent lower than normal on average. Spending recovered quickly after the hot spell. Four days later, the decline in consumption had been fully offset.

However, the trend differed considerably by retail segment. Debit card spending fell at many stores during the heat. Supermarket spending, by contrast, increased throughout the Netherlands.

On hot days, consumers mainly looked for convenience in the kitchen. They increasingly chose lighter products that required little preparation. Fresh products, salads, and ready meals were particularly popular. Barbecue meal kits were also popular during hot periods. According to ABN AMRO, these products offer high margins.

Refrigeration systems become overloaded

Higher demand also placed additional pressure on refrigeration systems. Several supermarkets experienced problems during the summer of 2026. High outdoor temperatures made it harder for systems to release heat.

Open refrigerated displays and intensive use added to the strain. This caused malfunctions or made display cases too warm. Supermarkets subsequently removed products from sale as a precaution. According to ABN AMRO, this resulted in empty shelves.

Older or poorly maintained systems proved particularly vulnerable. Regular maintenance and condenser cleaning are therefore important. Spray systems can help prevent roof-mounted condensers from overheating.

Home delivery temporarily restricted

Supermarket chains also restricted their delivery services during the heat. These measures protected staff and products from high temperatures. As a result, delivery capacity declined and operating costs increased.

Albert Heijn stopped home deliveries after 3:00 p.m. on June 26. Picnic made no deliveries between 1:00 and 6:00 p.m. that day. On other hot days, drivers received additional breaks. They were also allowed to adjust their pace to the temperature.

Abnamro.nl