Natural Grocer Sows Its Oats In Supermarket
By George Anderson
Is this just another case of, “If you can’t beat them, join them?”
Last week’s announcement that Wild Oats Markets was testing a “store-within-a-store”
concept inside Stop & Shop brings together two grocery competitors, albeit
in the natural foods niche, under a single roof.
Wild Oats Market said the SWAS test in up to five stores will help it build
a national presence for its brand and reach customers it wouldn’t normally in
its own stores.
According to a Denver Post report, the locations within Stop & Shop
“will primarily sell Wild Oats holistic health items, including vitamins and
mineral supplements, and the company’s private-label products. The grocer will
also begin selling its private-label items in the Chicago area through Internet
grocery retailer Peapod Inc. in the fourth quarter.”
Moderator’s Comment: What are your thoughts on Wild
Oats Markets test with Stop & Shop and Peapod?
Our first reaction was, how long will it be before the
announcement that Ahold is buying the natural foods chain? –
George Anderson – Moderator