IGA Surprises as Australia's Top Roast Chicken Provider in 2026 Study
A recent survey has uncovered the ultimate destination for scoring the tastiest bachelor's handbag, with an unexpected grocery franchise claiming the crown. The 2026 Most Satisfied Customer Award for Rotisserie Chicken, conducted by financial comparison site Canstar, has named IGA as the nation's best supermarket for roast chickens, ending Costco's five-year winning streak.
Survey Details and Results
Canstar interviewed over 1,900 Australians who had recently purchased a hot chicken to determine which supermarket offers the superior bachelor's handbag. IGA emerged victorious, earning a perfect five out of five stars for overall satisfaction and top marks for tastiness. The study also evaluated freshness, value for money, and packaging, with IGA scoring four out of five stars in each of these categories.
Costco secured a close second place, receiving a top rating for overall satisfaction but only three out of five stars for taste. Woolworths followed in third with an overall rating of four stars, while Coles ranked last, scoring three out of five stars across all categories. This result comes as Coles faces legal proceedings against the ACCC, adding context to its performance in the survey.
Consumer Habits and Preferences
The study delved into the factors influencing Australians when buying, eating, and sharing supermarket roast chickens. Key findings include:
- Roast chickens are a highly social food, with 25% of respondents bringing them to family parties or gatherings.
- Budget considerations are paramount for 18% of participants, who opt for the cheapest available option.
- Animal welfare is a priority for 18% of shoppers, who consistently choose free-range chickens.
- Stuffing remains divisive, with one in four people discarding it immediately.
- Younger generations show a playful side, as 11% of Gen Zs have passed off a supermarket chicken as homemade.
Expert Insights and Industry Impact
A Canstar spokesman highlighted the significance of the survey, noting that assessing one of Australia's most beloved convenience foods was a substantial undertaking. He stated, "Aussies rated supermarkets' roast chickens on taste, value for money, freshness, and packaging—with IGA earning Canstar's most satisfied customers award thanks to high ratings across all categories, demonstrating a strong performance when it comes to customer satisfaction." With nearly a quarter of Australians regularly purchasing hot chickens, the competition in this category is fierce, and customer loyalty is highly valued.
This study not only reveals shifting consumer preferences but also underscores the competitive landscape of Australia's supermarket industry, where even staple items like roast chickens can drive brand allegiance and market differentiation.
