Shopping in Germany is entering a new era. Throughout 2026, supermarkets, discounters and online retailers will face a wave of regulations and digital innovation. For consumers, that means new labels on products, more apps in their hands — and potentially higher prices in their carts.
Animal welfare standards will become more visible
A major milestone arrives in March 2026: all fresh pork will be required to carry a state-approved animal housing label. The new logo provides clear transparency on the animal’s living conditions — ranging from conventional indoor housing to outdoor access.
Several large chains are already moving further. Starting January 2026, Aldi Süd will completely remove meat from the lowest welfare category across its own brands — not only pork but also beef, poultry and other meats. The retailer plans a full shift away from ultra-cheap meat, while other big players aim to follow by 2030. German shoppers can therefore expect more responsible — yet often pricier — choices in the meat aisle.
Smartphone first: loyalty programs go digital
The future of loyalty is firmly in the app world. According to a study by consulting firm McKinsey on supermarket trends in Europe, nearly two-thirds of retailers plan major investment in digital customer loyalty by 2026.
Aldi Nord, previously one of the few discounters without a program, is now testing a mobile points system. For shoppers, coupons and app-based rewards may soon become just as essential as the shopping bag.
Over-the-counter medicine enters the retail battleground
Competition is also expanding beyond food. Drugstore chain dm intends to ship non-prescription drugs via its online shop by the end of 2025, with Rossmann and Lidl working on comparable services. This push into everyday healthcare could reshape how Germans access common medicines — and who profits from them.
Price negotiations could lead to tension at the shelves
Every autumn, Germany’s biggest retailers — including Lidl, Edeka and Rewe — renegotiate pricing and delivery terms with manufacturers. These deals determine which products stay on shelves and how much they cost.
Industry insiders warn that chocolate, coffee and soft drinks could become flashpoints. If talks fail, certain brands might temporarily disappear — or come back more expensive.
Sustainability rules take center stage behind the scenes
2026 will also be a year of heavy compliance work for retailers, triggered by new EU regulations.
More recyclable packaging from August 2026
A stricter packaging ordinance will require easily recyclable, environmentally friendly materials. Less plastic, more reuse — and likely higher production costs.
Stronger consumer rights for products and digital services
A revamped product liability act will hold sellers more accountable if devices or software malfunction.
Meanwhile, a “right to repair” will ensure that retailers must offer spare parts or repairs for many goods rather than steering shoppers toward replacement.
Credit and marketing become more tightly controlled
New rules for instalment payments and “Buy now, pay later” will introduce stricter affordability checks to prevent excessive debt. Retailers will also face tougher scrutiny when using marketing labels like “eco-friendly” or “climate neutral” — such claims must be scientifically proven from autumn 2026.
A decisive year for shoppers and retailers
With new sustainability demands, price pressures and digital tools, shopping in Germany will feel noticeably different soon. What was once a simple weekly routine is turning into a highly regulated, increasingly tech-assisted experience — one that promises greater transparency but may also come with a higher bill.
