How can a retailer that’s only been in the U.S. for less than two years make a list of America’s “best” supermarkets?
Lidl, the German discounter based in Virginia, opened on the East Coast in 2017 ranked No. 4 in The Daily Meal’s 2019 list, behind No. 1 Publix, No. 2 Wegmans and No. 3 Aldi, and just ahead of No. 5 Trader Joe’s.
Notice something similar in all of these entries?
They’re distinct. Unique. Differentiated.
You can’t go to Walmart and get a Trader Joe’s experience, or a Wegmans, or a Publix, although – as a Central Texas resident – I’d argue that H-E-B should rank high in this type of retail list.
The Daily Meal says its list of the 20 best is based on these criteria:
Stock: A wide range of brands and offerings, including organic, locally sourced, artisanal, local favorites, international foods, and private label.
Services/Departments: Departments, including butcher, deli, bakery, and pharmacy.
Innovation: Delivery options, mobile apps, and staying on top of the latest trends.
Customer Service: Efficient checkout and self-checkout, easy returns/exchanges, loyalty programs, and personal touches like baggers who take groceries to the car.
Appearance and cleanliness: Brightly lit displays, tidy shelves, clutter-free aisles, and scuff-free floors.
Contribution to the community: Creating local jobs, working with local farmers and suppliers, and helping the less fortunate.
