Survey Says #1 Grocery Store Is ...

America's favorite grocery store is Wegmans, according to a new survey out this week.

This is the first time in four years that Trader Joe’s did not rank first, the company said.

Findings from a new large-scale consumer study of more than 10,000 consumers conducted by Market Force Information revealed that Wegmans is America’s favorite grocery retailer, followed by Publix Super Markets and Trader Joe’s, Market Force announced this week.

Northern Virginia has several Wegmans in the area including at Hilltop Village in the Kingstowne area, Fairfax, Woodbridge, Sterling, Gainesville and Fredericksburg.Doors opened at the Hilltop Village location last June.

Founded in 1916, Wegman's is known for its fresh produce, reasonable prices and massive stores. The Rochester, New York-based chain focuses on employee training to ensure customers have the best experience; it's been a winning strategy that creates "super fans" eager for a new location to open near their home.

You can find Trader Joe's locations across Northern Virginia, including in Alexandria, Arlington, Bailey's Crossroads, Centreville, Fairfax, Reston, Springfield and more.

Also read: New Grocery Store Chain Looking to Enter Northern Virginia Market

For the rankings, Market Force asked participants to rate their satisfaction with their most recent grocery shopping experience and their likelihood to refer that grocer to others. The results were averaged to rank each brand on a Composite Loyalty Index.

After not earning enough votes to make the list in 2015, Wegmans garnered double the votes in 2016, resulting in a score of 76 percent, enough to secure the top spot.

Publix ranked second for the fourth year in a row with an earned a score of 75 percent, followed by Trader Joe’s, which slipped 5 percentage points from 2015 for a score of 73 percent. Hy-Vee and ALDI rounded out the top five.

Also read: PHOTOS: ALDI Holds Grand Opening in Alexandria

Market Force sought to uncover which brands excel in specific operational and service categories that set leading grocers apart. It found that Publix and Wegmans led in most areas, including the ability to find desired items, cleanliness and specialty department service.

ALDI was the price leader, followed by WinCo and Costco.

Trader Joe’s, known for its friendly service, ranked first for cashier courtesy. ShopRite, Meijer and Kroger offer the best sales and promotions. Hy-Vee also performed well across the board, ranking in the top five in many categories.

What's your favorite grocery store? Tell other Patch readers in the Comments box below.

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Photos: Wegmans grand opening, Hilltop Village shopping center in Kingstowne area of Fairfax County. Photos courtesy of company