M. Jericho Banks PhD

Publix Heading North and Straight for Harris Teeter

January 12, 2012

FROM RETAILWIRE:
According to several reports, Publix is opening new stores in suburban South Carolina, just across the border from Charlotte, NC, Harris Teeter's home base. What will Publix's entry mean for the chain and others, such as Harris Teeter, that are already operating there?      [more...]

When Hitler invaded Russia during the winter, the Russian army essentially backed up, removed all food from the German army's route, and allowed them to slog across huge portions of the largest country in the world in the cold with no food. Hitler retreated after Russian shock troops began flanking them in their weakened condition and attacking them with superior numbers and resources.

Hitler's supply lines were stretched beyond their ability to serve his troops, and historically this principle has applied to supermarket chains whose reach exceeds their grasp. Harris Teeter is not the only impediment to entry into SC by Publix. Ever heard of BI-LO, which recently purchased Winn-Dixie to create a 690-store chain with several strategically-located distribution centers? I've directed the marketing for BI-LO and consulted for both Publix and WD, and I caution pundits and observers who underestimate the resolve and competitive spirit of BL and WD. Don't hand SC over to Publix just yet.