PARSIPPANY, N.J. — Kings Super Markets here is set to launch a very unique, multi-event program that will showcase food expertise, featured products and modern technology to help its customers with meal solutions.
Called "Dining Solutions for the 21st Century," the new program will utilize the talents of 21 "food masters" recruited from among the chain"s employees, kicking off Nov. 12, at the 24-unit chain's flagship store in Short Hills, N.J.
The 21 food masters include corporate-level officials and full-time and part-time associates.
"The daily events, revolving around the meat and seafood departments, will feature chefs — sometimes a celebrity chef — preparing a meal on a stage that's part of a recent retrofit," training director Jessica Gasser told SN.
The customer has the option of taking a recipe, and buying ingredients displayed right at the stage, or buying the already-prepared meal to reheat.
In-store television monitors will show these events live, and iPhone kiosks placed throughout the store will enable customers to get customized solutions to meet their particular dietary needs or food choices.
At least 70 separate events are scheduled between now and December 31 at Short Hills, and then after the first of the year, a roll-out to selected stores will be considered.
"We call this an 'action lab,' because we'll be making changes as we go along, as we learn," Gasser said.