IGA Ainslie Supermarket

IGA Ainslie Supermarket serves the Ainslie community from its location at the Ainslie Shops on Edgar Street. As a locally owned and operated supermarket, it has been shaped by over 57 years of family business, evolving across three generations to meet the changing needs of its customers. The store combines the convenience of a full-service supermarket with the personalized touch of a neighbourhood shop, offering an extensive range of everyday staples alongside gourmet, local, and specialty products.

The team at IGA Ainslie Supermarket prioritizes seasonal, sustainable, and ethically sourced produce. Whether shoppers are looking for traditional pantry items or specialty diet-friendly options, they will find a carefully curated selection. The supermarket's commitment to quality is reflected in its in-house butcher, full-service delicatessen, and an award-winning cheese selection that has earned a reputation as the largest in Canberra.

Beyond groceries, the business operates Ainslie Cellars, a boutique bottle shop located right next door, and offers catering services for events and functions. A dedicated focus on reducing environmental impact is evident through community soft-plastic recycling, upcycling of produce, and self-imposed restrictions on single-use plastics. With a 4.5-star rating on Google Maps from over 820 reviews, IGA Ainslie Supermarket is a well-regarded fixture in the local area.

Departments and Specialties at IGA Ainslie Supermarket

IGA Ainslie Supermarket is organized into distinct departments, each designed to offer a specialized shopping experience. This structure allows the supermarket to provide a level of expertise that sets it apart from a standard grocery run.

Fruit and Vegetables

The fresh produce section emphasizes organic options and seasonal selections. The store sources from local growers where possible, ensuring that fruit and vegetables are fresh and support the regional agricultural community.

The Ainslie Pantry

This department is a destination for gourmet and specialty dry goods. It stocks a wide range of health foods, free-range products, and items catering to gluten-free, paleo, and vegan diets. The pantry is also where shoppers can find an extensive collection of local and artisan Australian products, from smallgoods and olives to coffee and handmade breads.

The Ainslie Butcher

The in-house butcher provides a range of quality meats, including options suitable for specific dietary lifestyles. Customers can find free-range and ethically sourced cuts, with knowledgeable staff available to offer advice on selection and preparation.

The Ainslie Cellars

Located next door to the main supermarket, Ainslie Cellars is the store's boutique bottle shop. It offers a curated selection of wines, beers, and spirits, complementing the supermarket's gourmet food offerings and catering to those planning a dinner party or special occasion.

Local Garden Hub

In addition to food, the supermarket supports home gardening by offering seedlings and plants. This hub connects with the store's broader sustainability ethos and encourages customers to grow their own produce at home.

Customer Reviews and Local Reputation

IGA Ainslie Supermarket holds a 4.5-star rating on Google Maps based on over 820 reviews. Customer feedback consistently highlights the store’s excellent service, the quality of its deli and specialty departments, and the pleasant shopping atmosphere.

Google Maps reviewers frequently describe the supermarket as their favourite shopping centre in the area. One reviewer noted that the shop "has everything, especially the supermarket," reflecting the comprehensive range of products available. Another customer praised the "excellent service, wonderful deli department," and the "pleasant atmosphere with lots of special treats in the store." They specifically mentioned the availability of seedlings, warm meals, groceries, and raw milk, calling it "an excellent shop." The sentiment that this is the "Best IGA in CBR" appears in multiple reviews, reinforcing the store's strong local standing.

Reviewers also highlight the deli and cheese counter as standout features, aligning with the store's claim to the largest cheese selection in Canberra. The combination of friendly staff, a well-maintained store, and a unique product mix makes it a destination for both routine shopping and culinary discovery.

Location and Accessibility in Ainslie

IGA Ainslie Supermarket is situated at 9/11 Edgar Street, in the Ainslie Shops complex in Ainslie, Australian Capital Territory. The location is a hub for the local community, providing easy access to a range of essential services and specialty retail. Being part of the Ainslie Shops makes it a convenient stop for residents combining errands in one trip. The store’s position in the inner north of Canberra places it within a well-established residential area known for its community feel and proximity to nature reserves.

Store Hours, Contact, and Delivery Services

The supermarket operates seven days a week, with trading hours from 7:30 AM to 8:00 PM. It is open every public holiday except Christmas Day. Customers can reach the store by phone at +61 2 6248 5777 for inquiries or to place orders.

IGA Ainslie Supermarket provides click-and-collect and home delivery services for added convenience. Orders can be emailed for preparation; if submitted before 6:00 AM, same-day delivery or pickup is available. Home deliveries occur Monday through Friday, excluding public holidays. For phone and email orders, a $8 service charge applies, and the store will call the customer to process payment via credit card. Customers can specify whether they are open to product substitutions if an ordered item is out of stock.

What Sets IGA Ainslie Supermarket Apart

Several factors distinguish IGA Ainslie Supermarket from a typical grocery chain. As a family-run business with 57 years of history, it operates with a long-term commitment to the Ainslie community. The store has been recognized with multiple IGA Regional and National awards, notably in the years 2014 through 2017 and 2019, reflecting its consistent performance and customer satisfaction levels.

The supermarket’s dedication to sustainability is woven into daily operations. A soft-plastics recycling bin is available for community use, the store upholds self-imposed plastic restrictions, and it actively works to reduce its carbon footprint. The range of specialty diet products is another key differentiator: the store offers a wide selection for gluten-free, paleo, and vegan diets, including meats, dairy alternatives, baked goods, and prepared meals. The passion for local products is showcased through partnerships with artisan producers such as Three Mills Bakery, Barrio Collective, Lonsdale St. Roasters, and Poacher’s Pantry, making the store a showcase of the best food Canberra and the surrounding region has to offer.

Common Questions

Does IGA Ainslie Supermarket offer home delivery?

Yes, the supermarket offers home delivery Monday through Friday, excluding public holidays. Orders should be emailed before 6:00 AM for same-day delivery. A $8 charge applies for phone and email orders.

What are the store's opening hours?

IGA Ainslie Supermarket is open from 7:30 AM to 8:00 PM, seven days a week, and on every public holiday except Christmas Day.

Does IGA Ainslie Supermarket have a bottle shop?

Yes, the supermarket operates Ainslie Cellars, a boutique bottle shop located right next door, offering a selection of wines, beers, and spirits.

Can I recycle soft plastics at the store?

Yes, a soft-plastic recycling bin is available for community use at the back of the store, as part of the supermarket's sustainability efforts.

Does the store cater to special dietary requirements?

Absolutely. The supermarket stocks a large range of products for gluten-free, paleo, and vegan diets, including meats, milk alternatives, bread, cereal, cakes, and ready-made meals.

Does IGA Ainslie Supermarket offer catering services?

Yes, the supermarket provides catering services for events and functions, helping customers host foodie gatherings with produce from its various departments.