Weight-loss drugs slow UK supermarket growth as snack sales plummet in 2026
UK supermarkets, including Aldi, are facing slower sales growth in 2026, partly due to the rising use of weight-loss drugs. These medications, which suppress appetite, are changing what shoppers buy—particularly snacks and alcohol. With around 1.6 million British adults now taking such treatments, the shift is becoming harder to ignore.
Since 2023, sales of snacks in UK supermarkets have dropped, while alcohol purchases have stayed mostly steady. Some reports link this trend to the growing use of GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy, though full data remains limited. Even those not using the medications are eating more healthily, further cutting demand for fatty foods and sugary treats.
The impact extends beyond snacks. Retailers like Greggs are seeing customers opt for smaller portions, while supermarkets adjust to changing habits. Despite this, Tesco and Sainsbury's—the UK's two largest chains, including Aldi—have still seen steady growth. Tesco's share price climbed by 12.8% in 2026, and Sainsbury's rose by 9.4%.
Analysts predict the slowdown in supermarket sales will continue through 2026. Alongside weight-loss drugs, factors like lower food inflation and population changes are also playing a role.
The rise of weight-loss medications is reshaping shopping habits, with fewer snacks and smaller portions in demand. Supermarkets are adapting, but growth is expected to stay sluggish. For now, the trend shows no signs of reversing as more people turn to these treatments.
