Food Talk: Does grocery store size matter?

QUESTION: I moved here from the West Coast and some of our grocery stores were much smaller and it was easier to get in and out. Do you see that trend happening here?

ANSWER: My answer has to be the grocer will provide what the customer demands.

What you observed has happened on the West Coast. Tesco, a British retailer, has opened smaller neighborhood markets in California, Arizona and Nevada. They are only about 10,000 square feet compared to our average store of 85,000 square feet.  Wal-Mart has even tried this marketing concept by opening three 15,000 square foot stores in Phoenix.

The age of super sizing may be coming to an end. With the rising popularity of the “smart” car, the trend toward building smaller homes and the demand on the consumer’s time and budget we are beginning to economize in many ways. The grocery list is one way we have cut spending. We seem to be purchasing more essentials and less “splurges.” This could allow the grocery stores to have fewer items on the shelf. This means there would not be as many aisles to peruse or brands available. Are we really ready to give up these choices?

You must remember, in Europe where these stores originated, food storage in the home is limited. In the United States the average person shops for food 2.2 times a week. In Europe they are forced to shop on a daily bases. Just this habit alone would force our grocery stores to be larger and maintain more inventory.

We are certainly blessed with many food choices at a variety of prices that are of excellent quality. Regardless of the size of the store, we should give a big thank you to individuals and cooperatives bringing us these great food choices.

For more information about any nutrition issues, please call Ellen Lofits, registered dietitian, at (479) 549-2425.