Anne Bieler

Consumers Go for Bad Idea and Buy Food in Tire Stores

February 25, 2010

FROM RETAILWIRE:
In a RetailWire poll back in October 2008, respondents were asked, "How difficult is it for a retailer not in the food business to succeed at selling groceries?" It appears as though Canadian Tire is beating the poll's odds as the chain has expanded food sales.... What challenges will Canadian Tire face if it significantly ramps up its food operations?      [more...]

As most shoppers decreased the number of store trips over the last 2 years, bringing them back is the challenge. Simplifying the number of purchase stops with a quick food pick up for staples can increase CT traffic.

Challenge, yes, but selling food can work with right selection and focus on freshness. Shoppers Drug Mart here has been increasing/changing the number of food SKUs, including frozen items, and is showing good results.

It's all about simplifying the shopping experience - CT could pull this one off.