KOWALSKI'S WELLNESS DEPARTMENT MOVES UP

DAN ALAIMO

WOODBURY, Minn. -- To take better advantage of traffic patterns, Kowalski's Markets here is moving its Natural Path wellness department from a rear alcove to the front of its flagship store here this month.

Customers attending educational sessions and other events in the retailer's "The Next Level" second-floor function room will pass by the relocated section, said Mary Anne Kowalski, owner. "We'll get more exposure for the section, and we will sign it better," she said.

Other Kowalski's units are constrained by space from carrying such natural products, she said. "But we will be adding small sections like that to our other stores in the future," she said.

This is the only one of Kowalski's 10 stores that the company built from the ground up, and its unique design in an Italian village motif has been recognized widely in the industry. "We see ourselves as a traditional grocery store with a civic mindedness about whole health and wellness. But it encompasses a lot more than just supplements, vitamins and food. It's about feeling good when you are shopping," Kowalski said.

The wellness department carries natural vitamins, herbs and supplements, health and beauty care items, books and magazines, and yoga supplies. "We wanted to tie in the aromatherapy, flowers, greeting cards and gifts with this section," said Debbie Leland, natural foods specialist.