PHOENIX — Consumer willingness to buy products in all retail channels has created a “flat retail world” that supermarkets must proactively address, according to Wendy Liebmann, chief executive officer and Chief Shopper, WSL/Strategic Retail.
In a presentation at the Food Marketing Institute’s Midwinter Executive Conference here, Liebmann outlined steps to success, which included the importance of health and wellness merchandising. She said supermarkets are on the right path with initiatives ranging from product rating systems to in-store clinics.
“It’s stunning that drug stores don’t own more of the health and wellness proposition, but they don’t, she said. “Supermarkets are making real progress, but the reality is there’s more to be done. It must be in every aisle of the store. You can own it in this flat retail world, but you must be bold.”
Others steps to success she cited include offering multiple shopping platforms, being completely transparent, having flexible marketing approaches for different customer bases, and integrating eco-friendly programs into activities.