Interesting story in the Baltimore Sun reflecting how supermarkets are competing with discounters, supercenters, c-stores, Internet companies and restaurants for hare of stomach by branching out into nonfoods areas to build sales and margins.
Now ,along with traditional food and HBC products, “Safeway sells lawn furniture, lamps and DVD players, toys and department-store gift cards,” the Sun reports. “It also has teamed up with a Web site specializing in overstocked merchandise to sell clothing, electronics and housewares online.”
Giant is doing the same thing, offering items such as barbecue grills, hammocks and wicker furniture in its aisles.
Of course, as the food stores expand their nonfood offerings, the nonfood stores work to generate traffic by expanding their food selection.
Now ,along with traditional food and HBC products, “Safeway sells lawn furniture, lamps and DVD players, toys and department-store gift cards,” the Sun reports. “It also has teamed up with a Web site specializing in overstocked merchandise to sell clothing, electronics and housewares online.”
Giant is doing the same thing, offering items such as barbecue grills, hammocks and wicker furniture in its aisles.
Of course, as the food stores expand their nonfood offerings, the nonfood stores work to generate traffic by expanding their food selection.
- KC's View:
-
We understand this trend, and can appreciate why it is important. But here’s out concern.
People call it “channel blurring.” But is it possible that the only thing being blurred is the consumer’s clear vision of what makes a supermarket different and unique?
We don’t have the answer here, nor do we even think there is just one answer. But “blur” isn’t necessarily a good word. It suggests lack of clarity, speed without specific destination.
You gotta stand for something. (Or, as the songwriter said, you’ll fall for anything.)
