Shopping

IN DESPERATE NEED OF GROCERIES?

There are several supermarkets in Amsterdam:

- Albert Heijn (AH) is considered the premium supermarket chain.
- Dirk van den Broek is a popular budget supermarket chain offering cheaper prices than AH on branded items.
- Ekoplaza is the main organic supermarket chain in the Netherlands. As they sell organic products, prices are a little bit higher compared to standard supermarkets. The quality of their items justifies these higher prices though.
- Jumbo is renowned for their excellent customer service and pricing policies (e.g. if you happen to find a discrepancy between the store price and the till price of an item, you get it for free. Also, fresh products on their sell-by date are given away for free).
- Both Aldi and Lidl are budget supermarket chains offering very low prices. Be aware that some of Aldi’s stores are closed on Sundays while all Lidls are usually open every day.

Tips: Pay attention to discounts because most supermarkets regularly have special offers in store and don’t forget to bring you own bag since supermarkets do not offer free plastic bags (you may get one from €0.35 upwards).

LOOKING FOR A SHOWER CURTAIN OR OTHER SUPPLIES?

You may find what you need somewhere in these stores:
- Blokker offers everything you need for your house, from electronics to bathing articles.
- Hema is a department store selling local food, clothes and various supplies.
- Praxis is a hardware store where you can find basic household items like shower curtains.

WHAT ABOUT DRUG STORES?

Whether you need vitamins or medicine, you may find it here:
- Etos offers care products and vitamins for every need.
- Kruidvat can provide you with care products, vitamins and household items too.

These are the main stores you can expect in Amsterdam but don’t be shy and explore the city for other shops. Your discoveries may surprise you!