This week we got a glimpse of the future of US food retailing local competition.

In a recent report by the Food Marketing Institute (FMI) the legacy “meal solutions’ or grocerant niche is now “valued at about $ 1 trillion dollars” in the US alone. Tthe grocerant ready-to-eat and ready-to-heat prepared food niche growing the fastest! What they did not say in there report was US food retailing is in the process of returning to it roots!

The first 200+ years of this country food was produced and sold in local neighborhood markets. With the opening of the new Union Square Duane Reade Drug Store (soon to be Walgreens) we obtain a view of the future of US food retailing.

The store was designed to fit into a (any) local neighborhood. It’s light and airy, wide-aisle for ease of view shelving. This particular stores has everything for “New Yorkers' growing appetite for healthy food choices while on the go. A dedicated food section includes everything from sushi and sandwiches to fresh baked breads and healthy snacks.” Yes, this is a retail Drug store selling local fresh prepared food that is deemed “better for you”. Target pictured above is quickly moving into retail fresh prepared food.

Additionally this store has,” jumbo baked goods, as well as a cheese section and self-service coffee bar will be offered to shoppers with a taste for such treats. A refrigerated section will feature on-the-go meals, and there is a station for cut fruits, oatmeal, cut vegetables and pre-made salads and sandwiches.”

On the go one stop shopping LOCAL, FRESH PREPARED FOOD IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD. This is the way it was done years ago at the “general store”. Duane Reade is positioned to be quicker, fresher and better for the consumer than a traditional grocery store. Price and quality will prove challenging too many a restaurant chain.

Outside eyes can deliver top line insights and bottom line profits. Invite Foodservice Solutions to provide brand and product positioning assistance or a grocerant program assessment. Since 1991 Foodservice Solutions of Tacoma, WA has been the global leader in the Grocerant niche for more on Steven Johnson BING: Steven Johnson Grocerants or Google: Steven Johnson Grocerants