DrugStore Foodservice is an emerging market for some and a deeper dive for others, but there is no doubt today’s consumers’ meal occasions are driven by where they are hungry, when they are hungry, and what they are hungry for.
From far-reaching chain drug operations to the independent hometown corner store, DrugStore Foodservice is more than a notion or idle chatter. Bringing it into a shopping environment where expanding personal health options and healthcare convenience are the nexus of industry conversations makes total sense because drug stores are the most natural of environments for foodservice, especially with offerings like wholesome natural foods and organics settled in so many retail venues.
At issue are a litany of rigorous entry matters that must be addressed like what is the extent of your participation, how do you develop the product line, and how much space does it get? These questions not only “cause the pause” within the drug store community, they are potential stumbling blocks for all who see foodservice at retail as the “what’s next” growth opportunity.
Looking back a generation or two, drug stores were some of the first outlets with foodservice. Along with your soda or milk shake you could chow down on a burger, fries, hot dog, BLT, ham ‘n cheese, and a limited selection of wet salads. Have we circled back? Is the timing right to go back to the future? Absolutely! Offering a diverse menu of pre-packaged, case ready fresh foods from sandwiches and complete meals to fresh frozen will not be the challenge, and neither will the refrigeration strategy. Display space, as always, will be a limiting factor, but the operational needs of your DrugStore Foodservice program can be dealt with successfully.
The real test is understanding the task and maintaining a commitment from the top of your organization down, not just to entering a new and untapped world, but staying in the foodservice business while your plan comes together. DrugStore Foodservice demands a complete grasp of your shoppers’ lifestyles, your communities, and foodservice dollar appeal in the local retail environment. Your analysis will influence the products you select and how they are presented, and each will be critical to your overall success.
