Regional chain Stater Bros. Markets has launched a new strategy to diversify its supply pool and enhance its commitment to local markets at the same time. Dubbed its “Local Fare,” the retailer is working to open a forum to offer greater opportunities for local California-based brands to connect with new customers.
"Nurturing local families and communities—including local businesses—is at the heart of what we do," Dennis McIntyre, Executive Vice President and Chief Merchandising Officer, said. "This initiative provides companies in our communities a larger retail footprint while our customers gain access to an expanded variety of healthy, high-quality, and innovative products. It's a win-win for local brands and our shoppers."
The event kicked off July 26 and will run through August 6 on online product discovery and sourcing platform RangeMe. The store locations selected will carefully consider factors such as providing the most relevant product assortment for each store's local communities.
Stater Bros. said that its Category Managers are seeking the area's very best offerings in all categories, including a focus on attributes especially important to their shoppers:
Supplier submissions can be made here, and will be reviewed and chosen by the Stater Bros. Category Management team, with those chosen being given placement free of charge. Suppliers not selected will still be accessible via RangeMe and may be reviewed by Stater Bros. Category Managers again in the future as business needs evolve, according to the release.
Wishing the best of luck to applicants as we at Deli Market News wait to see if similar strategies continue to pop up across the buy-side!
