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WGB Week in Review: The Hits Keep Coming
A rebirth at Earth Fare, new moves at Kroger, and Walmart+ reportedly nears launch time. By now old pros at tackling the operations challenges that came with the onset of a newly revived coronavirus threat, U.S. food retailers this week revealed some of their plans to move ahead. Kroger made significant C-suite moves and is ushering new partners, providing a revamped in-store radio broadcast and media planning. Walmart is reportedly expected to launch its Prime competitor. Those stories and more are highlights from the week of July 6 as covered by WGB.
1 Min Read
Photograph courtesy of Earth Fare
Inside the Deal to Save Earth Fare
By Jon Springer on 07/02/2020
When the natural foods chain he helped build collapsed, Randy Talley hustled to find new investors and old colleagues to save Earth Fare.
Dennis Hulsing, CEO, Earth Fare
“It’s a concept that has deteriorated over the last couple of years, but I knew that they had a heck of a face, a heck of a strategy and I think, a heck of a following.”
Kroger Appoints Stuart Aitken as Chief Merchant; Yael Cosset to Oversee Analytics
By Jon Springer on 07/07/2020
The moves, which underscore the retailer's commitment to data, coincide with Joe Grieshaber's upcoming retirement.
Kroger Spins a New Tune
By Jon Springer on 07/08/2020
The retailer’s new store audio provider balances revenue generation and shopper engagement while capturing "the sound of the brand."
Paul Brenner, president, audio out of home, Vibenomics
“That’s the legacy we’re trying to overcome: make it engaging, make it fun, but then automate it, digitize it and give it something the advertiser can get a better result from.”
What Will a Walmart Membership Look Like?
By Jon Springer on 07/10/2020
Amid reports of an imminent launch, Walmart+ could be a vehicle for the retailer's future vision.
The Multiple Shopping Behaviors of the Pandemic
By Kat Martin on 07/02/2020
Archer Daniels Midland’s Ana Ferrell shares insights into the bifurcated world of consumer shopping behaviors during the pandemic.
Ana Ferrell, VP and head of marketing of North America, Archer Daniels Midland
“In the aftermath of the March/April timeframe, we are seeing consumers much more pragmatic in their behaviors. This is something that we’ll likely see as more of a consistent pattern from an economic standpoint until a new variable comes in.”
How Lidl Slowed Inflation on Long Island
By Jon Springer on 07/08/2020
A new pricing study commissioned by Lidl illustrates how competitors are adjusting, item by item, to the discounter's Long Island arrival.
14.9%
Price reductions on select items at Long Island Aldi stores in proximity to opening Lidl units, according to a UNC-Kenan-Flagler study.
Meijer Opens 5 New Supercenters
By Kat Martin on 07/09/2020
The new stores are operating under adjusted hours due to the pandemic and are maintaining strict safety measures.
How to Beat Amazon in the Grocery Game
By Jennifer Strailey on 07/07/2020
A new report from Takeoff Technologies reveals what online grocery shoppers value most and how retailers can best compete profitably in the channel.
Timothy Laseter, University of Virginia
“Amazon’s relentless pursuit of speed has forced a tradeoff contracting its positioning on both expansive variety and low cost. The shift reflects an inherent challenge: Retailers need to be close to the end customer to achieve fast delivery.”
The Supermarket Experience: It's Time to Integrate
By Doug Madenberg on 07/07/2020
Findings from Retail Feedback Group’s latest study indicate an opportunity for food retailers to rethink the customer experience, the author says.
39%
Shoppers reporting that an employee positively impacted their last shopping experience, according to a Retail Feedback Group study.
Kroger Selects Integrated Media Partner to Advance Fresh for Everyone Campaign
By WGB Staff on 07/08/2020
Dentsu Aegis Network will create a team responsible for media planning and buying across all media channels for the retailer and its family of brands.
Eyeing ‘Pandemic Fallout,' BJ’s Resumes New Club Growth
By Jon Springer on 07/09/2020
The membership club says it will open in Chesterfield, Mich., on July 31.