BEDFORD HEIGHTS, Ohio -- Riser Foods here, which debuted a new 1,000-square-foot book shop concept this summer, plans a fifth department at a new unit slated to open next year.
Positioned at the rear of its marketplace format stores, behind prepared foods and greeting cards, the book and magazine departments replicate elements found at specialty book stores.
Floor-to-ceiling oak bookshelves are devoted to hardcover books and serve as a backdrop for the section. Oak railings and tables create a mood for browsing.
"The Borders of the world, and seemingly more interest in reading, convinced us to pursue this market," said Rick Channell, Riser's director of general merchandise and health and beauty care.
With these new departments, Riser is also making its first major commitment to hardbacks, which it previously merchandised in limited space.
The book shop format, set into stores with 73,000 square feet of space, doubles title assortment. "
After four months into this larger concept, shelf turns have increased at these stores," said Channell.
The chain worked closely with its news distributor, Klein News in Cleveland, to develop the concept. "The distributor not only provided expertise, but we are sharing the cost of fixturing and merchandising as well," explained Channell.
Riser's category signs spotlight the various title segments, including cooking and wine publications.
