$788 million in sales! Why this small chain is winning where Coles and Woolies aren’t

Harris Farm pulled off an upset that few expected in the ongoing supermarket battle.

Against bigger players with national reach, the family-owned chain clinched several top titles in a highly competitive field.

Shoppers have spoken—and their verdict was surprising.


Thousands of consumers took part in Finder’s Customer Satisfaction Awards, ranking Australia’s leading supermarkets.

Harris Farm emerged as the standout, claiming the titles of ‘Most Loved’, ‘Most Recommended’, ‘Most Trusted’ and ‘Top Rated Supermarket Produce’.

The grocer’s win came despite its reputation for higher prices, with shoppers still ranking it above ALDI, Coles and Woolworths in key categories.


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Harris Farm sweeps top supermarket satisfaction awards. Image source: Harris Farm Markets


ALDI held on to its ‘Top Value’ crown for the second year running, while Ritchies was awarded ‘Legendary Service’.

Woolworths took out ‘Top Rated Supermarket Rewards Program’ for its Everyday Rewards, the only program linked to Qantas points.

Coles was recognised as the best for home convenience, winning ‘Top Rated Grocery Delivery’.

Finder’s head of consumer research Graham Cooke described the market as ‘fiercely competitive’, noting that each brand excelled in different areas.

‘Harris Farm took the top gong in half of all the categories this year, and was the most recommended supermarket in Australia,’ he said.

‘For those looking for a bargain though, ALDI came out on top again. Their range, however, is smaller than their competitors.

‘Coles has been upping their game in delivery, and the Woolies rewards program is the highest rated in Australia, and the one only one which awards Qantas points.’

Harris Farm remains a smaller player in the industry, with just 33 stores across New South Wales, Queensland and Canberra.

The grocer recorded a $22 million loss in the 2024 financial year, more than triple the previous year, blaming issues linked to a new software rollout.

Despite the setback, sales rose 5.6 per cent to $788 million.


The business was founded in 1971 by David and Cathy Harris in Villawood, Sydney.

Today, it is still run by the Harris family, with brothers Angus, Tristan and Luke taking over as co-CEOs in 2013.

Tristan stepped back from an executive role two years ago but remains on the board as a director.

Finder’s data also revealed that the average household now spends $209 a week on groceries, up from $190 last year.


If Harris Farm’s surprise win showed how a smaller chain can punch above its weight, it isn’t the only grocer making waves.

Another budget-friendly store has been winning hearts not just for its prices, but for the way it connects with shoppers.

Here’s a look at why customers are flocking to this local favourite.

Read more: It’s not just the prices: Shoppers reveal why they really love this budget grocer

Key Takeaways

  • Harris Farm was voted ‘Most Loved’, ‘Most Recommended’, ‘Most Trusted’ and ‘Top Rated Supermarket Produce’.
  • ALDI was awarded ‘Top Value’ while Ritchies won ‘Legendary Service’.
  • Woolworths received recognition for its rewards program, and Coles for delivery.
  • Harris Farm has 33 stores and remains family-run despite recent financial losses.

Do you think family-run supermarkets can continue to challenge the dominance of the big chains?
 
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We have a supermarket in out suburb that is run by their family. It is almost the size of a warehouse. The fruit and vegetables are always fresh and are one third of the price when compared with Coles, Safeway and Aldi prices. Definately shopping at supermarkets run by family members is the way to go, if you want to shop fresh vegetables and fruits at an affordable price. 🙏🦋
 
It's nice to hear small family supermarkets doing well. None over here in WA that know of. Definitely not interested in Spud shed I think their fruit and veg whenever I have been there are rubbish so not my shop of choice.
 
It's nice to hear small family supermarkets doing well. None over here in WA that know of. Definitely not interested in Spud shed I think their fruit and veg whenever I have been there are rubbish so not my shop of choice.
Dear member Darrellh, thankyou for your post. Can I make a suggestion. Browse on the internet for intersate family owned fruit and vegetables stores. Give them a call. Talk with the manager and tell them you are speaking on behalf of your community and yourself. Ask them if they could open one of their fruit and vegetables stores in your area, as there are so many customers that would dearly shop there for fresh fruit and vegetables. Wishing you success in your communication with managers of family owned fruit and vegetables stores. 🙏🦋
 
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Dear member Darrellh, thankyou for your post. Can I make a suggestion. Browse on the internet for intersate family owned fruit and vegetables stores. Give them a call. Talk with the manager and tell them you are speaking on behalf of your community and yourself. Ask them if they could open one one their fruit and vegetables stores in your area, as there are so many customers that would dearly shop there for fresh fruit and vegetables. Wishing you success with your communication with managers of family owned fruit and vegetables stores. 🙏🦋
That's a great idea. I am just putting my home on the market so will wait until I have sold and found my new place and do this.
 
That's a great idea. I am just putting my home on the market so will wait until I have sold and found my new place and do this.
🙏🦋
 
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I’m happy with my woollies store in Frankston never had a problem with fruit and vegetables there always fresh.🌞
 
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Reactions: 7777 and Littleboy8

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