SpartanNash Enhances Fresh Offerings With New Heat-and-Eat Private Label Line

SpartanNash appears to be making headway on its efforts to improve its fresh offerings via the acquisition of assets from Caito Foods Service and the launch of its Good to Go private label heat-and-eat meal solutions. 

The move comes only weeks after SpartanNash President and CEO David Staples promised in a call with investors that the Grand Rapids, Mich.-based distributor will continue to improve its retail offerings despite a disappointing performance on the retail front this year, citing its partnership with Caito as one of its efforts in motion. Spartan acquired Caito a little over a year ago with an eye on using its commissary facilities to roll out convenient fresh items for its retail stores and distribution customers.

'"With the management team and systems now in place at Caito," Staples said the company is experiencing "improved trends in both productivity and profitability."

The Good to Go by Open Acres brand, offering entrees, sides and desserts, is available in the deli at Family Fare Supermarkets, D&W Fresh Market, VG’s Grocery and Forest Hills Foods locations throughout Michigan, with plans to roll out into more than 300 of SpartanNash's Michigan independent retailers in the coming months.

“Our store guests enjoy serving home-cooked meals to their friends and family, but don’t always have the time to make it themselves,” said SpartanNash's VP of Private Brands John Paul. “With Good to Go entrees and sides, we’ll do the cooking for you. Whether it’s ready to eat, ready to heat or interactive meal kits, Good to Go is our solution for today’s busy lifestyles.” 

Related:SpartanNash Awarded A $2.75 Million Michigan Strategic Fund Grant

The line will include "trending flavors and comfort food favorites," such as tilapia with lemon orzo, chipotle chicken, shepherd’s pie, twice baked potatoes and apple crisp.