VERMONT - In Vermont, the grocery scene moves at its own pace. You won't find a Wegmans on every corner or a massive Publix appearing overnight. However, 2026 is shaping up to be a year of "The Great Upgrade." Instead of building entirely new mega-malls, Vermont's favorite chains are heavily investing in modernizing existing footprints, converting aging stores into high-end concepts, and slowly welcoming new discount options to the Green Mountain State.
VERMONT - In Vermont, the grocery scene moves at its own pace. You won't find a Wegmans on every corner or a massive Publix appearing overnight. However, 2026 is shaping up to be a year of "The Great Upgrade." Instead of building entirely new mega-malls, Vermont's favorite chains are heavily investing in modernizing existing footprints, converting aging stores into high-end concepts, and slowly welcoming new discount options to the Green Mountain State.From the transformation of Morrisville to the continued "Market 32" wave, here is what is changing in your town this year.
1. The "Market 32" Wave Hits Morrisville
The biggest confirmed news for early 2026 is in Lamoille County. The transformation of the Price Chopper on Route 15 into a fully modernized Market 32 is officially complete as of this week.
- The Change: This isn't just a new sign. The "Market 32" concept focuses on fresh food service. Expect a massively expanded produce section, a cheese shop, and a hot food bar that rivals Whole Foods.
- The Trend: Parent company Northeast Grocery is aggressively moving to convert more legacy Price Choppers in Vermont throughout 2026. Watch for potential announcements for the Rutland or St. Johnsbury locations later this year.
2. Hannaford's "Store of the Future" (South Burlington)
Hannaford isn't letting Market 32 take all the credit. The chain has just wrapped up a significant overhaul of its South Burlington Dorset Street location, setting the standard for what its Vermont stores will look like in 2026.
- The Upgrade: The focus is on "Grab-and-Go" convenience. The newly renovated layout features an expanded kitchen for hot meals, a larger pharmacy with private consultation rooms, and a dedicated "Hannaford To Go" pickup zone to combat the winter weather.
- What's Next: Insiders expect these same renovations to roll out to Essex Junction and Williston later in 2026.
3. Aldi's "Quiet" Expansion
While Aldi is making a loud noise about opening 180 stores nationwide in 2026 (including entering Maine for the first time), its strategy in Vermont remains tactical.
- The News: Real estate reports suggest Aldi is scouting "in-fill" locations in Chittenden and Washington Counties. The goal is to provide a discount alternative in towns currently dominated by a single Shaw's or Hannaford.
- The Prediction: Look for permit filings in the Berlin/Barre corridor or perhaps a second look at the St. Albans market as the year progresses.
4. The "Local" Counter-Attack: Jericho Market
It's not just the big chains. Jericho Market has unveiled a stunning new interior design that is turning heads across the state.
- The Vibe: They have effectively brought the Vermont forest inside the store. With local wood finishes and a hyper-focus on Vermont-made products, independent grocers are doubling down on what the big chains can't fake: authenticity.
- Why It Matters: This success is inspiring other local markets (like those in Woodstock and Waterbury) to renovate rather than sell out to larger conglomerates.
5. The "White Whale": Trader Joe's
No Vermont grocery article is complete without addressing the elephant in the room. With Trader Joe's announcing 20+ new stores for 2026, will a second Vermont location finally happen?
-
The Rumor Mill: While South Burlington remains the sole outpost, speculation continues to swirl around a potential location in the Upper Valley (White River Junction area) to capture the Dartmouth/Hanover demographic that currently drives an hour to get their "Two Buck Chuck."
