Lund

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Shopping and Grocery

Information on general shopping options and grocery stores for daily needs.

Sections

1. Types of Stores in Lund

Supermarkets

Supermarkets in Lund are well-stocked with a variety of groceries, including fresh produce, dairy, meat, frozen goods, and household items. Some of the most common supermarket chains in Lund include:

  • ICA: One of Sweden's largest supermarket chains, with stores ranging from small convenience stores (ICA NΓ€ra) to larger supermarkets (ICA Kvantum or ICA Maxi). ICA Kvantum in Lund is particularly popular for its wide selection.
  • Coop: Another major chain offering a good range of organic and eco-friendly products. Coop stores vary in size, with Coop Forum being the largest format.
  • Willys: A budget-friendly supermarket chain known for its competitive prices and bulk options.
  • Lidl: A German discount supermarket chain offering affordable groceries, including imported goods and weekly special items.
  • HemkΓΆp: A mid-range supermarket chain with a focus on quality and fresh produce.

Specialty Shops

Lund has several specialty stores catering to specific needs:

  • Asian and International Grocery Stores: Stores like Saigon Food and Oriental Supermarket offer Asian, Middle Eastern, and African ingredients that may not be available in regular supermarkets.
  • Health Food Stores: Shops like Life and HΓ€lsokraft specialize in organic, vegan, and gluten-free products, as well as vitamins and supplements.
  • Cheese and Delicatessen Shops: Stores like MΓΆllans Ost offer a wide selection of cheeses, cured meats, and gourmet items.
  • Bakeries: Local bakeries such as St. Jakobs Stenugnsbageri are popular for fresh bread, pastries, and traditional Swedish treats like kanelbullar (cinnamon buns).

Markets

  • Lund Saluhall: A historic indoor market offering high-quality fresh produce, meats, seafood, and specialty foods. It’s also a great place to find local Swedish delicacies and artisanal products.
  • Farmers’ Markets: Seasonal farmers’ markets are held in Lund, especially during the warmer months, where you can buy fresh, locally grown fruits, vegetables, and flowers.

Department Stores and Shopping Centers

  • Nova Lund: The largest shopping center in Lund, featuring a mix of Swedish and international brands, including H&M, Lindex, Clas Ohlson, and more. It also has a few grocery stores and specialty food shops.
  • Γ…hlΓ©ns: A Swedish department store chain offering clothing, home goods, and beauty products, often with a small grocery section.

2. Typical Costs of Groceries and Other Items

Sweden is known for its high cost of living, and Lund is no exception. However, prices can vary depending on where you shop. Below is a general guide to grocery costs in Lund (as of 2023):

Basic Grocery Items

  • Milk (1 liter): SEK 12–15
  • Bread (loaf): SEK 20–30
  • Eggs (12-pack): SEK 25–35
  • Chicken breast (1 kg): SEK 80–120
  • Ground beef (1 kg): SEK 100–140
  • Apples (1 kg): SEK 25–35
  • Potatoes (1 kg): SEK 10–20
  • Rice (1 kg): SEK 20–30
  • Pasta (500 g): SEK 10–20
  • Coffee (500 g): SEK 40–60
  • Cheese (1 kg): SEK 80–120
  • Beer (500 ml, domestic): SEK 15–25
  • Wine (750 ml, mid-range): SEK 80–120 (purchased at Systembolaget)

Household and Personal Care Items

  • Shampoo (250 ml): SEK 30–60
  • Laundry detergent (1.5 liters): SEK 50–80
  • Toilet paper (4 rolls): SEK 20–30

Dining Out

  • Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: SEK 100–150
  • Coffee at a cafΓ©: SEK 30–50
  • Fast food combo meal: SEK 80–100

3. Shopping Procedures and Payment Methods

Shopping Procedures

  • Self-Service: Most supermarkets and stores in Lund operate on a self-service basis. Customers pick their items, scan them at the checkout, and pay.
  • Self-Checkout: Many larger supermarkets, such as ICA and Coop, have self-checkout stations for added convenience.
  • Bagging Your Groceries: In Sweden, customers are expected to bag their own groceries. Bring your own reusable bags or purchase them at the store (usually SEK 2–5 per bag).

Payment Methods

  • Card Payments: Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and many Swedes use contactless payment methods. Visa and Mastercard are the most commonly accepted cards.
  • Mobile Payments: Swish, a mobile payment app, is very popular in Sweden. However, it requires a Swedish bank account.
  • Cash: While cash is still accepted in most places, Sweden is moving toward a cashless society, and many stores prefer card or mobile payments.

4. Local Considerations and Cultural Practices

Sustainability and Recycling

  • Swedes are very environmentally conscious, and this is reflected in their shopping habits. Many stores offer a wide range of organic and eco-friendly products.
  • Recycling is a big part of Swedish culture. You’ll find recycling stations for plastic, glass, and paper near most residential areas and supermarkets.
  • Pant System: Sweden has a deposit system for beverage containers. When you buy a drink in a can or plastic bottle, you pay a small deposit (SEK 1–2), which you can reclaim by returning the container to a recycling machine (often located in supermarkets).

Alcohol Purchases

  • Alcohol stronger than 3.5% ABV can only be purchased at Systembolaget, the state-run liquor store. Systembolaget has limited opening hours (usually 10:00–18:00 on weekdays and 10:00–15:00 on Saturdays, closed on Sundays), so plan accordingly.

Store Hours

  • Most supermarkets are open from 7:00 or 8:00 AM to 9:00 or 10:00 PM, but smaller stores may close earlier.
  • On Sundays, some stores may have reduced hours or remain closed, so it’s best to check in advance.

Seasonal Shopping

  • During holidays like Christmas (Jul) and Easter (PΓ₯sk), stores stock special seasonal items such as saffron buns (lussekatter), glΓΆgg (mulled wine), and pickled herring.

5. Tips for Shopping in Lund

  • Compare Prices: If you’re on a budget, compare prices between Willys, Lidl, and ICA for the best deals.
  • Look for Discounts: Many supermarkets offer weekly discounts and loyalty programs. Check their apps or flyers for deals.
  • Shop Local: Support local farmers and artisans by shopping at Lund Saluhall or farmers’ markets.
  • Plan Ahead: If you need specialty items or alcohol, plan your shopping around Systembolaget’s hours and availability.

By understanding the shopping landscape in Lund, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate the city’s stores and markets with ease. Whether you’re looking for budget-friendly groceries, specialty items, or a taste of Swedish culture, Lund has something to offer for everyone.