Creativity has been key for specialty food operators as they navigate the novel COVID-19 pandemic. Distribution relationships have inevitably changed, and the retail and foodservice sectors are working to launch new strategies. As one company at the helm of this effort, Sysco has rolled out another creative initiative, recently piloting a pop-up grocery store at the Southwest Florida Event Center.
“Obviously, communities across the country are having trouble finding certain fresh items and certain supplies. This is just a great way for us to help the community get the products that they’re looking for and, at times, are having a hard time obtaining,” said Sysco's Senior Director, External Communications, Shannon Mutschler.
According to News-Press, phase one of the “pop-up, stock-up” event took place on April 22. Consumers were able to order groceries on the Sysco website, which were then available for pickup on April 24.
For this initiative, Sysco adopted a big-box retail strategy, offering products in bulk similar to what shoppers would find at many club stores. The distributor will set up a parking lot drive-through where shoppers can easily and safely receive their orders.
“When they reached out to us, it was kind of like a no-brainer,” added Event Center Co-Owner Jennifer Shanahan. “We welcome anybody who’s working to get food out into the community.”
It is my belief that creativity can be learned, so keep checking in with Deli Market News as we seek out the most innovative efforts in the industry.
