While fresh is an important category for grocers, the waste caused by perishables can have a significant impact on the bottom line. A study by RELEX found that 74% of retailers say fresh products are essential to their business, and 98% of the remainder attribute some level of importance to fresh. The challenge lies in avoiding over ordering to minimize the amount of waste without inadvertently causing out-of-stocks by under ordering. “It’s hard [for grocers] to forecast what exactly they’re...

The lines between grocery store and restaurant have been blurring for some time now as retailers offer more takeout options for busy shoppers, but the concept can go beyond grabbing dinner while picking up groceries. In-store restaurants can provide a reason for shoppers to dwell and provide a profit-forward differentiator that can help stores stand out as they fight for market share in a tricky economy, particularly during certain parts of the week. “Right now, the biggest challenge grocers...

The biggest supply chain disruptions in recent memory have passed but their impacts are still being felt by cautious consumers. According to a recent Ipsos poll, nearly two-thirds (65%) of Americans say that grocery stock availability is worse today than before the pandemic—a challenge that threatens not only immediate sales but long-term customer loyalty. “Poor availability, in particular, is a huge problem, not just operationally but, ultimately, in customer experience,” said Paul Boyle,...

Continued economic pressure has led to growing sales at “extreme value” retailers like Ollie’s Bargain Outlet Holdings—including in food, according to President and CEO John Swygert on a call with investors. Ollie’s strong performance in Q2 2023, with sales up 13.7% year-over-year, is a sign that mainstream grocers should be watching this low-price category to better understand their own shoppers’ demands. Ollie’s carries a range of food products, including k-cups, cereal, energy drinks,...

While the end of the pandemic has been mostly good news for grocers, the return to in-store shopping has taken its toll on grocery e-commerce. More than half (52%) of consumers have stopped using the channel since 2022, according to data from SymphonyAI Retail CPG. However, digital offerings remain valuable for both supermarkets and customers, so grocers need to shift their strategy toward the needs of the post-COVID consumer. Part of the reason for this shift is demand for omnichannel in...