According to an article in The Times and Democrat newspaper in Orangeburg, South Carolina, local grocery chain Piggly Wiggly might be on to something revolutionary and important in the supermarket business. This month, the retailer will unveil this country's first "completely restructured grocery store model designed to fit how people intuitively shop."


The article, Piggly Wiggly to Role (Roll?) Out New Model Supermarket is worth reading.
In summary: with ever rising food prices and soaring energy costs, Piggy Wiggly is betting its new store format in Myrtle Beach will be a hit with consumers. Store owners and designers think the retailer's new layout will have a huge impact on the supermarket industry, as well. And if the new prototype is received as well as expected, more Piggly Wigglys will be redesigned.
New distribution systems, the latest refrigeration systems and energy-saving technologies have been brought together to design this new prototype store all designed to make the shopping experience easier.
Some of the changes:
*
Like items are grouped together: cereal with milk; frozen and canned veggies and fruits; coffee and creamer, etc.
*
One-stop stations where complete meal solutions are grouped together. Example given in article: ground beef, hamburger buns, chips and beer all together in one place. . .no need to shop in a dozen aisles for all of these items.
*
A large kitchen as focal point enables consumers to watch chefs prepare meals.
*
Special stations where weeks' worth of oven-ready meals can be prepared and brought home.
*
Home-like décor inside the store, including wood flooring and soft lighting. No commercial feeling here.
Many food retailers have gone increasingly upscale and introduced special outsourced departments, including sushi stations, fine wine assortments, gourmet foods and drive-through pharmacies. But the national design firm that designed this first Piggly Wiggly prototype has recreated the supermarket model that has been in place for over 50 years, 'from the ground up'.
*
What do you think of Piggly Wiggly's new concept supermarket?
*
Would this new format appeal to you? Do you think it would save you time and money if you didn't have to travel the entire store to purchase specific items if those items were merchandised together?
*
Would you be encouraged to prepare your own meals for future cooking in such an environment?
I'd love to hear from you.