9 Grocery Store Habits Boomers Have That Make Gen Z Shake Their Heads

For Baby Boomers, grocery shopping has never been just a chore—it is a routine, a ritual, and for many, even a bit of a social outing. From the days when milk was delivered to the doorstep to the era of big-box supermarkets, Boomers have seen shopping evolve in ways younger generations can hardly imagine. But walk into a grocery store today, and you may notice a cultural divide playing out right in the aisles.

Gen Z, with their smartphones, apps, and preference for convenience, often looks at the way Boomers shop with raised eyebrows and the occasional smirk. It is not that Boomers are doing it wrong—far from it. In fact, many of their habits are rooted in practicality and decades of experience. Still, to younger shoppers, these routines sometimes seem outdated, quirky, or even puzzling.

Let’s take a lighthearted but honest look at nine grocery store habits Boomers have that make Gen Z shake their heads—and why, at the end of the day, these differences are more endearing than embarrassing.

1. Shopping Only at Traditional Supermarkets

For many Boomers, the local supermarket is a one-stop shop for everything from fresh produce to weekly staples. Studies show that Boomers are more likely than younger generations to stick with traditional grocery chains, while Gen Z often favors discount stores, dollar outlets, or specialty markets. To Boomers, supermarkets represent quality and reliability. To Gen Z, they can look overpriced or old-fashioned. But there is no denying the comfort and familiarity of strolling down clean, organized aisles where you know exactly what you will find.

2. Sticking with Familiar Brands

If there is one thing Boomers value, it is brand loyalty. After years of experience, they know which cereal tastes best, which laundry detergent works every time, and which coffee makes the perfect morning cup. Research even shows that as people age, they are less likely to experiment with new product categories. Gen Z, however, is eager to try trendy plant-based milks, new snack brands, and global flavors. To them, a pantry filled with the same brands year after year looks a little dull. But for Boomers, sticking with trusted brands is less about being stuck in a rut and more about knowing what works without wasting time or money.

3. Making Frequent Small Trips Instead of One Big Haul

Rather than stocking up once a week, many Boomers prefer smaller, more frequent trips to the grocery store. Whether it is picking up just a few fresh items or strolling through for daily essentials, this approach feels more manageable. Gen Z, on the other hand, is all about efficiency—ordering in bulk online or making one big shopping trip to save time. They see a quick daily trip for bread and milk as unnecessary. But for Boomers, these small visits are part of a comfortable routine—and sometimes even a chance to chat with neighbors or store staff.

4. Avoiding Impulse Buys and Extra Treats

Boomers are known for their careful spending, especially when prices climb. Surveys show that nearly 60 percent of Boomers cut back on non-essential grocery items during times of inflation, while younger generations are more willing to splurge on trendy snacks or new drinks. Gen Z might toss a specialty latte mix or gourmet ice cream into the cart just for fun, while Boomers keep their eyes on the basics. To younger shoppers, this frugality may seem boring—but to Boomers, it is smart money management.

5. Preferring Staffed Checkout Lanes

When it comes to checking out, Boomers often head straight to the staffed lanes. Having a friendly cashier handle the transaction feels reliable, personal, and less stressful than dealing with glitchy machines. Gen Z, however, is perfectly happy with self-checkout—and sometimes annoyed when they see long lines at the cashier lane while the self-service stands are empty. To Boomers, a quick chat with the cashier is part of the experience. To Gen Z, it is wasted time.

6. Using Paper Coupons and Weekly Circulars

Nothing beats the feeling of handing over a paper coupon and watching the total drop at the register. Boomers grew up clipping coupons from Sunday newspapers and checking weekly circulars for deals, and many still prefer that method today. Gen Z relies on smartphone apps, loyalty programs, and digital coupon codes to save money. They might even laugh when they see a shopper carefully unfolding a paper coupon at checkout. But the savings Boomers rack up are no joke—and sometimes the old way still works best.

7. Asking Store Associates for Help

Boomers do not hesitate to ask a store employee where to find a product or whether a certain item is in stock. They value personal assistance and appreciate the customer service. Gen Z, however, tends to whip out their phones, check the store’s app, or even Google a store map before approaching a human being. To them, asking for directions in the store feels unnecessary. But Boomers know that a quick question often saves time—and maybe even brightens the day with a friendly interaction.

8. Choosing Curbside Pickup Instead of Home Delivery

While many younger shoppers prefer the convenience of home delivery, Boomers are more likely to choose curbside pickup. It offers the convenience of ordering online without the added delivery fees, and there is peace of mind knowing you can check your groceries as you load them into your own car. Gen Z wonders why you would bother driving to the store at all, but for Boomers, curbside is a happy balance between old-fashioned shopping and modern convenience.

9. Shopping Early in the Morning

Boomers are often the first customers through the grocery store doors. Shopping in the early morning hours means fewer crowds, fresher produce, and shorter lines. Some even enjoy the calm atmosphere before the rush of the day. Gen Z, however, tends to shop later in the day or after work. To them, a 9 a.m. grocery run sounds excessive—maybe even a little old-fashioned. But Boomers know that beating the crowds is a smart way to make the trip more pleasant.

Final Thoughts

Every generation has its own style when it comes to grocery shopping. For Baby Boomers, the habits may look a little old-fashioned to Gen Z, but they also reflect wisdom, discipline, and practicality. You know the value of a dollar, the comfort of trusted routines, and the satisfaction of face-to-face service.

So the next time a younger shopper smirks as you hand over a paper coupon or wait in line for a cashier, smile right back. Your way of shopping is not just about getting food—it is about staying connected to a lifetime of habits that work. And who knows? With time, Gen Z may discover that some of your old-school ways are worth keeping after all.