Marsh Goes Smaller
By George Anderson
A report in the Indianapolis Star says Marsh Supermarkets is creating a smaller 20,000 square foot store concept to meet the needs of consumers in growing communities.
The stores will operate under the Arthur’s Fresh Market banner and will feature fresh meat and produce sections surrounded by dry grocery.
Arthur’s is said to be similar in presentation to Marsh’s lifestyle center concept, an upscale market featuring service departments such as a European pastry shop and a New York-style
pizzeria. It is thought, however, that Arthur’s pricing structure will be more mainstream
Wal-Mart has announced plans to open three of its Neighborhood Market stores in Indianapolis this spring.
Peter Cleveland of Tharp Investments told the Star that Arthur’s is not intended as a response to Wal-Mart’s smaller format.
“They (Marsh) had this in the planning for some time,” he said. “It’s not just a competitive reaction.”
Moderator’s Comment: Which grocery operators do you think are the most innovative when it comes to store design? Which format or single store do you
think combines the best of form and function to offer consumers a superior shopping experience? [George
Anderson – Moderator]