A&P: ‘No Change’ in Consumer Behavior

TORONTO — Speaking at the CIBC World Markets Retail Conference here yesterday, Christian Haub, executive chairman of A&P, Montvale, N.J., said he has not seen any indication that consumers are changing their shopping behavior based on the economy. “I don’t see any ‘trading down’ from fresh foods to packaged, or from branded products to private label,” he said, adding that he believes traditional supermarkets are benefiting from consumers’ shift away from restaurant dining. “It’s really an opportunity to showcase what we’ve done in the stores.” He said the company remains close to completing a new supply agreement with C&S Wholesale Grocers, Keene, N.H., that would allow A&P to negotiate directly with vendors while C&S takes on “more of a third-party logistics” role, Haub said.

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