High energy prices are driving shoppers to discount stores

Shoppers appear to be quickly adjusting their shopping habits as energy prices rise due to the war in Iran. According to an analysis of foot traffic data, discounters are emerging as the winners in both the Netherlands and Germany.

Lidl wins in the Netherlands

With rising fuel prices in Europe, inflation is once again a concern for consumers who want to keep their household budgets under control. They are quickly adjusting their shopping behavior, according to an analysis of foot traffic by data firm Accurat. The firm tracked supermarket visits in the Netherlands between weeks 6 and 13 of 2026, comparing the period before and after the first energy shock.