Grocerant Guru Says Wingstop & OPI’s ‘Snack in :60 Challenge’ is a Brand Invitation Others Should Have Thought of First

 

Food marketing is all about relevance, timing, and creating a brand invitation that turns heads. The latest collaboration between Wingstop and OPI hits all three marks, proving once again that consumer behavior is the key to unlocking incremental sales growth according to Steven Johnson Grocerant Guru® at Tacoma, WA based Foodservice Solutions®.

In a world where grocerant niche Ready-2-Eat and Heat-N-Eat fresh foods continue to drive consumer migration from traditional restaurants to convenience-driven options, Wingstop’s newest partnership with OPI’s RapiDry Quick-Dry Nail Polish exemplifies a mix-and-match meal solution that extends beyond just what’s on the plate—it’s a cultural moment wrapped in indulgence, convenience, and self-expression.

Why This Collaboration is Food Marketing Gold Wingstop, known for its craveable, sauced-and-tossed wings, and OPI, a leader in nail color innovation, are tapping into a consumer truth: no one likes to wait. This collaboration is built on real-world consumer habits—today’s customers are not only looking for bold flavors, but they also want experiences that fit seamlessly into their fast-paced lives. According to food industry data, 63% of consumers decide what they’ll have for dinner after 4 PM, and nearly 50% of meals today are consumed alone. This means convenience-driven, low-friction dining solutions win every time.

Enter the Snack in :60 Challenge, where fans are invited to paint their nails with OPI’s new RapiDry Quick-Dry Nail Polish and then grab their made-to-order Wingstop wings within 60 seconds—without worrying about smudging their fresh manicure. That’s a mix-and-match meal solution beyond just food—it’s about integrating lifestyle choices into dining occasions.

Why This is a Grocerant-Style Game Changer Grocerant niche success is about bundling, relevance, and timing. This partnership checks all the right boxes:

1.       A Perfect Pairing for Young Consumers: Gen Z and Millennials, the most influential consumer groups today, thrive on social-driven experiences that combine food, self-care, and entertainment. This campaign builds on those consumer behaviors while giving brands a competitive edge.

2.       Driving Incremental Sales Through Bundling: Bundling food with an engaging lifestyle product enhances brand value. Other brands should be asking themselves: Why didn’t we think of this first?

3.       Creating a Brand Invitation: Every retailer, restaurant, and C-store needs to rethink how they engage consumers beyond just food. This partnership extends beyond traditional marketing—it's an invitation to interact with the brand in a new, exciting way.

A Lesson for Foodservice Operators & C-Stores This kind of cross-industry collaboration is something restaurants, grocery stores, and even convenience stores should be exploring. The concept of ‘meal occasions’ is shifting, and brand relevance now depends on how well companies adapt to the consumer lifestyle. From boxed meal solutions to gamified promotions that drive digital engagement, the Snack in :60 Challenge should be a wake-up call for competitors.

So, while fans get ready to take on the challenge with their exclusive OPI RapiDry x Wingstop Snack in :60 Kit—which includes two OPI RapiDry shades, a 60-second timer, and a Wingstop gift card—other brands should be strategizing their next move. Because in today’s fast-paced foodservice landscape, being late to the game means missing out on a feast of opportunity.

The Snack in :60 Kits will be available beginning Friday, January 31 at 12 p.m. ET through Wednesday, February 5 at 9 p.m. ET at Snackin60.com—but only while supplies last.

For the rest of the industry, the Grocerant Guru asks: What are you waiting for?

Don’t over reach. Are you ready for some fresh ideations? Do your food marketing ideations look more like yesterday than tomorrow? Interested in learning how Foodservice Solutions® can edify your retail food brand while creating a platform for consumer convenient meal participation, differentiation and individualization?  Email us at: Steve@FoodserviceSolutions.us or visit us on our social media sites by clicking the following links: Facebook,  LinkedIn, or Twitter

Walmart’s Pay and Benefits May Surprise You

 

For decades, Walmart has been both criticized and praised for its treatment of employees. However, in recent years, the retail giant has made significant strides in enhancing the compensation and benefits for its workforce, particularly for management and supervisory roles. This renewed focus is reshaping perceptions about career growth at the world’s largest retailer according to Steven Johnson Grocerant Guru® at Tacoma, WA based Foodservice Solutions®.

The Journey from Hourly to Management

Walmart's employees often begin as hourly workers, earning a starting wage of $18 an hour, a rate that significantly exceeds the federal minimum wage. Over time, these associates have opportunities for advancement, with many progressing to supervisory or department manager roles. Notably, Walmart promoted over 130,000 associates in fiscal year 2024, showcasing a pathway to better pay and responsibility for long-term employees.

For department managers, the journey typically takes three to five years of dedicated service. These roles include a base annual salary that can reach $65,000, depending on the store's size and region. Supervisors, another critical tier of leadership, earn competitive wages and enjoy benefits such as quarterly bonuses.

Store Managers: High Pay, High Responsibility

Store manager positions have always been aspirational within Walmart’s career structure. In 2024, Walmart raised the annual base salary for store managers to between $90,000 and $170,000, with the average now reaching $128,000. This represents a dramatic increase from previous years when starting pay for managers was as low as $65,000.

Beyond base pay, store managers now receive an annual stock grant that can reach $20,000, emphasizing Walmart's focus on long-term wealth-building for its leaders. Bonuses tied to performance metrics further enhance earning potential. For an employee climbing the ranks, this represents a remarkable transformation from entry-level work to six-figure compensation.

Market Managers: Earning CEO-Level Salaries

Taking managerial success to new heights, Walmart’s market managers—responsible for overseeing multiple locations—can now earn between $420,000 and $620,000 annually when factoring in bonuses. Base pay for this role starts at $160,000 and can rise to $260,000, accompanied by stock grants and bonuses of up to 100% of their base salary.

The timeline to ascend to market manager is approximately 15-20 years, showcasing Walmart’s commitment to rewarding experience and leadership within its ranks. This role underscores the competitive nature of management opportunities at Walmart compared to other retail employers.

Competitive Benefits and Promotions

Beyond pay, Walmart has introduced initiatives to attract and retain top talent. Hourly workers are now eligible for an annual bonus of up to $1,000, and stock purchase programs encourage long-term financial security. These enhancements coincide with healthcare benefit changes, though critics have noted higher deductibles in some plans.

In contrast to unionized retailers like Kroger, which face frequent pay-related conflicts, Walmart has managed to sidestep labor disputes by offering structured, transparent compensation plans. This proactive approach to employee satisfaction highlights Walmart’s desire to remain competitive in the retail landscape.

Historical Perspective: A Long Road to Change

Historically, Walmart faced scrutiny for low wages and minimal benefits. However, the tide began to turn in the mid-2010s when public pressure and competitive threats from retailers like Amazon prompted significant investments in worker compensation. Since then, Walmart has outpaced many industry peers, including Hobby Lobby and Target, in pay structure and promotional opportunities.

Think About This: A Career Worth Considering

Walmart’s career progression for hourly workers to store and market managers demonstrates a remarkable journey fueled by pay increases and performance incentives. While challenges such as healthcare costs remain, Walmart’s commitment to employee development is clear.

For workers willing to put in the time and effort, a career at Walmart can culminate in earnings and benefits that rival executive roles in other industries. Far from the stereotypes of retail work, Walmart’s initiatives may indeed surprise those exploring its employment opportunities.

For international corporate presentations, regional chain presentations, educational forums, or keynotes contact: Steven Johnson Grocerant Guru® at Tacoma, WA based Foodservice Solutions.  His extensive experience as a multi-unit restaurant operator, consultant, brand / product positioning expert, and public speaking will leave success clues for all. For more information visit GrocerantGuru.com, FoodserviceSolutions.US or call 1-253-759-7869

PepsiCo: The Grocerant Guru® Perspective on a Legacy of Innovation and Consumer-Focused Leadership

 

PepsiCo Inc. is not just a food and beverage powerhouse; it is a leader in the grocerant niche, driving convenience, innovation, and consumer engagement. With a legacy of transforming snacking and beverage categories to meet evolving customer needs, PepsiCo has mastered bundling strategies that align with Gen Z and Millennials’ preferences for mix-and-match meals, mini-meals, and snacks. Its ability to look a customer ahead and anticipate trends ensures retailer and consumer loyalty alike according to Steven Johnson Grocerant Guru® at Tacoma, WA based Foodservice Solutions®.

A Historical Journey in Consumer-Centric Growth

PepsiCo's innovative portfolio exemplifies its unparalleled understanding of consumer needs. From its origins with flagship beverages like Pepsi-Cola and Mountain Dew to its bold expansion into snack foods, the company consistently aligned its offerings with the on-the-go lifestyle of modern consumers. PepsiCo’s acquisition of brands like Bare, Sabra, and most recently Siete Foods, underscores its focus on delivering better-for-you options without sacrificing taste or authenticity.

The success story of Siete Foods, which started with an almond flour tortilla in 2014, echoes PepsiCo’s dedication to expanding consumer choice. With products such as grain-free tortillas, Mexican cookies, and taco seasonings, Siete has transformed from a small family business to a nationwide favorite. By acquiring this culturally authentic brand, PepsiCo preserves Siete's heritage while broadening its accessibility to over 40,000 retailers.

Emphasizing Mix-and-Match Meal Solutions

The grocerant niche thrives on bundling — the art of combining components to deliver meal solutions that are fast, fresh, and flavorful. PepsiCo has perfected this strategy across breakfast, lunch, dinner, and the all-important snacking category. By integrating beverages such as Gatorade and SodaStream with versatile snacks like Stacy’s Pita Chips and PopCorners, PepsiCo creates flexible, mix-and-match offerings that cater to younger generations' desire for personalization.

This bundling aligns seamlessly with Gen Z and Millennials, who prioritize convenience, authenticity, and variety. By enabling consumers to assemble meals from diverse components, PepsiCo enhances the at-home dining experience while maintaining the convenience of grab-and-go options.

Meeting Consumer Demand Through Strategic Acquisitions

PepsiCo's ability to acquire culturally and nutritionally relevant brands positions it as an industry disruptor. The acquisition of Siete Foods for $1.2 billion demonstrates its commitment to diversity, inclusion, and better-for-you product innovation. The move strengthens PepsiCo's portfolio of nutritious, simple, and culturally authentic foods, all while honoring Siete’s mission of sharing Latino heritage with a broader audience.

PepsiCo's other strategic acquisitions further this mission:

·         PopCorners: Enhancing snack-time options with bold flavors and innovative formats.

·         Sabra: Leading the hummus and dip category by introducing plant-based versatility.

·         Stacy’s Pita Chips: A longtime favorite in pairing snacks with meal components.

Loyalty Through Consumer-Centricity

PepsiCo not only expands consumer choice but also drives loyalty through innovation. Products like Gatorade Propel, Quaker Oats, and Mountain Dew Spark target specific lifestyle needs, from hydration to indulgence. This wide-reaching approach builds trust, ensuring that whether at home, at work, or on the go, PepsiCo delivers the right product at the right time.

The Grocerant Guru® Recommends PepsiCo’s Approach

1.       Authenticity Through Acquisitions: Expanding cultural heritage brands like Siete captures untapped markets while maintaining authenticity.

2.       Customization as a Core Principle: Flexible bundles spanning snacks and beverages resonate with the modern consumer’s need for choice.

3.       Future-Focused Vision: By consistently looking a customer ahead, PepsiCo ensures its offerings align with lifestyle shifts, including the rise of mini-meals and healthy snacking.

Building a Loyal Future

As PepsiCo leverages innovation and acquisitions to expand its influence in the grocerant space, its strategic bundling and consumer-centric approach ensure relevance for years to come. The company’s mastery in integrating meals and snacks with beverages highlights its leadership in empowering consumers to customize their dining experiences, reinforcing the Grocerant Guru® belief: when it comes to convenience and customer connection, PepsiCo stands unmatched.

Don’t over reach. Are you ready for some fresh ideations? Do your food marketing ideations look more like yesterday than tomorrow? Interested in learning how Foodservice Solutions® can edify your retail food brand while creating a platform for consumer convenient meal participation, differentiation and individualization?  Email us at: Steve@FoodserviceSolutions.us or visit us on our social media sites by clicking the following links: Facebook,  LinkedIn, or Twitter

What Grocery Stores Don’t Understand About Restaurants in Their Stores

 

In today’s dynamic food landscape, grocery stores and supermarkets are venturing boldly into the restaurant space, attempting to compete with quick-service and sit-down dining establishments. Steven Johnson Grocerant Guru® at Tacoma, WA based Foodservice Solutions® was the first to predict that this venture would present challenges, as these grocery-restaurant hybrids frequently misunderstand the core consumer desires and fail to align their offerings with the critical price, value, and service equilibrium.

Consumer Focus: Dinner Tonight

The consumer’s primary goal when stepping into a grocery store with an in-store dining option is often clear: they’re looking for a meal solution for dinner tonight. This need includes five key attributes:

1.       Choice — The ability to customize or mix and match meal components, catering to diverse household preferences.

2.       Affordable Pricing — Transparent pricing that feels competitive with other ready-to-eat options.

3.       Meal Bundling — Packages that simplify decision-making, offering both convenience and variety.

4.       Speed of Service — A quick and seamless experience that rivals traditional fast-food restaurants.

5.       Branded Messaging — Clear communication about what makes the experience unique or valuable.

Unfortunately, many grocers fall short in meeting these criteria, creating an inconsistent consumer experience that alienates shoppers rather than drawing them in.

The Confusion of Mixed Messaging

Grocery stores historically thrive on a “buy here and cook from scratch” marketing strategy. This narrative conflicts sharply with the “eat here now” promise implicit in opening an in-store restaurant. Today’s time-starved consumers increasingly lack the skills or patience to prepare complex meals at home, a trend exacerbated by years of reliance on ready-to-eat and heat-and-eat offerings. By leaning into restaurant ventures without fully committing to a coherent “meal solution” strategy, grocery stores muddy their own messaging, leaving consumers unclear about what to expect.

Lessons from Hy-Vee’s Market Grille Reversion

Hy-Vee’s recent decision to transition its in-store Wahlburgers restaurants back to the company’s Market Grille concept exemplifies the pitfalls of poorly executed grocery-restaurants. While Wahlburgers is a recognizable and appealing brand, the partnership’s inability to meet the nuanced needs of Hy-Vee shoppers underscores the struggle:

·         The operational disconnect between a third-party restaurant brand and a grocery retailer led to a lack of consistency.

·         Menu options failed to align with the quick and flexible dinner solutions consumers sought.

·         The partnership confused Hy-Vee’s core brand identity, further diluting its value proposition.

Returning to the Market Grille concept is an effort to regain control, provide more tailored menus, and emphasize affordability. The Grocerant Guru® notes this as a wise step, but questions remain about its ability to address the fundamental issues plaguing grocery restaurants.

Three Reasons Grocery Restaurants Are Failing

According to the Grocerant Guru®, the failure of grocery stores to thrive in the restaurant space stems from three critical oversights:

1.       Misalignment with Consumer Expectations — Grocery store dining options often lack the immediacy, simplicity, and flavor-forward appeal that restaurant diners expect. Inconsistent menu designs, long preparation times, and limited customization options leave consumers dissatisfied.

2.       Inefficient Operations — The staffing, kitchen layouts, and supply chain models designed for retail operations are often ill-suited to support restaurant efficiency. This mismatch results in slow service times and logistical challenges that frustrate customers.

3.       Overlooking Core Competencies — Rather than doubling down on their strengths—convenience, affordability, and mix-and-match bundling—many grocers imitate traditional restaurant models without addressing their inherent weaknesses. This approach places them in direct competition with seasoned restaurant brands, a battle they’re ill-equipped to win.

The Future: Bridging Grocery and Dining

To succeed in the restaurant space, grocers must redefine the “dinner tonight” solution. This means:

·         Expanding ready-to-eat and heat-and-eat options tailored to family-sized portions.

·         Leveraging mix-and-match bundling to let consumers personalize their meals with ease.

·         Implementing clear and targeted messaging around the value of in-store dining and its role within the broader grocery shopping experience.

Hy-Vee’s pivot back to the Market Grille concept reflects an acknowledgment of these realities. Whether this strategy will fully capitalize on what today’s diners seek remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: as the Grocerant Guru® predicted, only those who embrace consumer-centric innovation—in pricing, convenience, and service—will flourish in this evolving space.

For international corporate presentations, regional chain presentations, educational forums, or keynotes contact: Steven Johnson Grocerant Guru® at Tacoma, WA based Foodservice Solutions.  His extensive experience as a multi-unit restaurant operator, consultant, brand / product positioning expert, and public speaking will leave success clues for all. For more information visit GrocerantGuru.com, FoodserviceSolutions.US or call 1-253-759-7869

Revolutionizing Grab-and-Go: Kwik Trip’s Portable Packaging Innovation

 

Portability, packaging, and profits have a new champion in convenience store food innovation: Kwik Trip. Foodservice Solutions® Grocerant Guru® Steven Johnson declares, “Success leaves clues, and Kwik Trip’s commitment to expanding fresh fast-food portability with innovative packaging empowers consumer choice while driving the grocerant niche through mix-and-match meal component bundling.”

Fresh Food Discovery

Millennials and Gen Z, constantly in search of fresh food discovery, are embracing Kwik Trip’s latest Grab-and-Go innovations. Transparent, sustainable, and customer-centric, their new food packaging elevates the ‘better-for-you’ halo while bolstering the store’s reputation as a food destination. As Johnson explains, “Mix-and-match hot food meal component bundling is Kwik Trip’s way of answering the consumer demand for on-the-go convenience that fits seamlessly into evolving meal planning trends.”

Packaging Excellence

The state-of-the-art Kwik Trip Grab-and-Go container—a sleek, durable, resealable pouch—addresses the need for quality and sustainability. The packaging, which is oven and microwave safe, incorporates innovative features such as steam-venting perforations to maintain crispness, a heat-retaining inner layer, and clear sections for product visibility. Its sturdy design includes a comfortable handle for easy portability.

Kwik Trip’s Director of Food Innovation, stated, “Our new packaging redefines hot food portability. It’s a practical, environmentally thoughtful solution that ensures product integrity while offering convenience unmatched in the market today.” … “This innovation aligns perfectly with consumer trends for smaller meals and personalized meal planning.”

Driving Change with Fresh Offerings

The new packaging rollout introduces 15 new hot Grab-and-Go menu items, including spicy popcorn chicken, mac and cheese bites, sweet potato tots, cheddar-stuffed jalapeños, boneless barbecue wings, and bacon-wrapped shrimp. Customers can mix and match their favorites, enhancing customization opportunities for meals and snacks.

These fresh offerings target consumers’ growing preference for smaller, fresher, and more frequent eating occasions. … “We’re shifting customer perceptions—hot food at Kwik Trip isn’t just convenient; it’s elevated, quality dining you can take anywhere.”

The Four Reasons Kwik Trip Will Drive Incremental Customer Adoption

1.       Cutting-Edge Packaging Innovation: Kwik Trip’s Grab-and-Go pouches keep food fresh, crisp, and visually appealing while showcasing their brand, turning every product into a walking advertisement.

2.       Enhanced Menu Variety: The new lineup of 15 ready-to-eat items provides consumers with fresh, indulgent options that cater to all tastes.

3.       Sustainability Commitments: By adopting reusable and environmentally responsible materials, Kwik Trip meets the increasing consumer demand for green solutions.

4.       Convenience Redefined: By eliminating wait times while ensuring food quality, Kwik Trip’s packaging and food program guarantee an elevated customer experience that’s fast and fulfilling.

Empowering Growth and Innovation

Kwik Trip’s innovative approach demonstrates how portability, mix-and-match bundling, and quality packaging drive incremental sales and customer loyalty. Foodservice Solutions® specializes in helping brands like Kwik Trip identify and maximize opportunities in the grocerant niche—proving that portability and packaging are key pillars of future foodservice growth.

Don’t overreach. Are you ready for some fresh ideations? Do your food marketing ideations look more like yesterday than tomorrow? Interested in learning how Foodservice Solutions® can edify your retail food brand while creating a platform for consumer convenient meal participation, differentiation, and individualization? Email us at: Steve@FoodserviceSolutions.us or visit us on our social media sites by clicking the following links: Facebook, LinkedIn, or Twitter.