US: Winn-Dixie launches warehouse format

By: just-food.com | 7 January 2009

US retailer Winn-Dixie has launched a prototype warehouse-style store concept.

The test store, which has opened at one of its existing SaveRite locations, places additional emphasis on providing a low-price offering and running pricing promotions.

"In designing this concept, we spent a great deal of time reviewing our customers' shopping preferences. We wanted to make sure that the new store would be a true fit for the neighborhoods it serves," said Dan Portnoy, Winn-Dixie's chief merchandising and marketing officer.

"We focused only on those items and services that were most important to our customers, and, as a result, we were able to aggressively cut costs and lower prices throughout the store," he added.

The prototype store has an expanded produce and meat department and an in-store pharmacy. It also carries staple items in bulk, allowing consumers to purchase them "by the case".

Winn-Dixie was unavailable for comment as just-food went to press and the company did not indicate whether it had any plans to roll-out the new format across its SaveRite portfolio.

Sectors: Retail

Companies: Winn-Dixie