Price Rite serves up more meat alternatives

Price Rite Marketplace is introducing a selection of plant-based foods in response to shopper demand.

The Wakefern Food Corp. value grocery chain said the new plant-based options hitting shelves beginning today include Beyond Meat burger patties; Pure breakfast patties; and Perdue Chicken Plus nuggets, patties and tenders. Customers will find the products in the meat department.

“Many of our customers have been asking for these products as an alternative to traditional meat and chicken offerings,” Price Rite President Jim Dorey said in a statement. “We are delighted to bring these high-demand options to shoppers and start filling this growing market segment.”

Price Rite previously didn't carry any plant-based meat products. Beyond Meat bills itself as offering the first plant-based burger that “looks, cooks and satisfies” like beef without GMOs, soy and gluten. Dairy- and gluten-free, Pure plant-based breakfast patties are made with natural flavors. Meanwhile, all-natural Purdue Chicken Plus nuggets, patties and tenders blend cauliflower, chickpeas and plant protein, with each serving equal to one-quarter cup of vegetables.

“Our customers expect us to deliver incredible values on items they want at prices they love,” Dorey added. “It’s part of our commitment to bring the best possible shopping experience to residents in the neighborhoods we serve.”

Related:Podcast: Price Rite’s Jim Dorey on ramping up a revamp

Price Rite noted that the launch of plant-based foods reflects its ongoing store rebranding initiative, with the retailer touting a “Fresh New Look, Fresh New Deals, and Fresh New Finds.”

So far, 32 upgraded stores have opened in Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York and New Hampshire since the effort kicked off last fall. Plans call for the rest of Price Rite’s 64 locations to hold grand reopenings this fall and in the spring of 2020. The chain also operates stores in New Jersey, Rhode Island, Maryland and Virginia.

The rebranding project includes a new logo, store redesigns, an enhanced shopping experience, expanded fresh and private-label assortments, and more price savings.

Customers will find a farmer’s market-style produce department, a new bakery department with a dessert case called “The Sweet Spot,” and a broader selection of Wholesome Pantry natural and organic products, including free-from and gluten-free items. High-quality meat offerings include brands such as Certified Angus Beef, Perdue’s No Antibiotics Ever Chicken, Wholesome Pantry organic chicken and Oasis Halal, part of the “Fresh New Finds!” at the rebranded stores.

Related:Price Rite ramps up store rebranding program