Small Talk: Considerations for Small-Format Grocery
As grocery brands explore small-format opportunities, designers are reimagining the shopping experience to better serve and accommodate local communities – while continuing to provide the selection and variety of a larger store.
While convenience stores and small-format grocery stores serve different purposes for consumers, they share a common goal of convenience. Grocers can draw inspiration from c-store design to create smaller stores that are innovative, efficient and tailor to the convenience of the customer.
As a leader in grocery architecture, BRR explores the potential of small-format grocery and what unexplored opportunities exist for our clients.
Location, Location, Location
Location is key when it comes to small-format grocery stores. These stores are often built and designed to exist in urban cores, however there’s an untapped potential in placing these stores in downtown, suburban districts where there’s plenty of foot traffic.
These suburban main street environments attract the local population and adding a reliable grocery store would not only attract a loyal customer base from the community, but tenants in the area. Many of these walkable districts contain popular, locally-run restaurants that would similarly benefit from having a grocer within walking distance.
This same concept applies to multifamily developments where the amenity of a walking-distance grocery option would appeal to residents. A walkable commute to a grocery store for essential items or evening meals could incentivize residents toward one particular development over another.
Being selective when choosing a future location for a small-format grocery store can determine how these stores will be utilized and by whom. Small-format grocery can utilize the populations residing in suburban areas.
Back to Main Blog PageCo-Branded Small Format
An idea worth exploring is grocers co-branding with another business to bring in more foot traffic and entice shoppers with offerings outside of the food environment. Partnering with other business types, small format grocery stores have the potential to bring in shoppers beyond those just looking for groceries. These partnerships also draw in more foot traffic and different clientele.
Grocers can consider a variety of opportunities for partnership:
- Extended-Stay Hotels: Collaborating with an extended-stay hotel gives guests access to fresh food they can prepare in their hotel for a healthy option and a home-cooked meal.
- Gyms: Grocers partnering with gyms can provide the opportunity for specific offerings catered to gym goers like protein-focused items, smoothies and fresh juices and more.
- Mixed-use/Shopping Districts: A small-format grocery store located within a mall allows customers to complete retail shopping and grocery shopping in one location. Additionally, it could provide shoppers with a food offering outside of a fast-food court.
- Office Complexes: After work, employees can save themselves an additional trip to a grocery store before heading home. This grants employees a conveniently located grocer or an in-building lunch option.
Grocers are consistently rethinking the customers’ experience and convenience. Partnering with businesses where consumers are already spending their time allows them to purchase groceries while performing functions of their day.
Utilizing Technology for Convenience
Convenience stores offer consumers with 24/7 accessibility – a level of convenience that most traditional grocery stores are not able to replicate. With walk-out technology, small-format grocery stores can use this tech to introduce compact vestibules. These locations would function as secure spaces and allow customers to enter, purchase their items and exit without the need to interact with a cashier.
To enhance 24/7 accessibility, grocers can offer exterior-facing grab-and-go kiosk where items would be stored behind secure doors and purchased electronically.
These options provide grocers with the accessibility of a c-store that allows the flexibility to adapt their current footprint. Designers can use their existing square footage to adapt to shopper’s habits and create a smaller area that functions as a 24-hour space.
The Future of Small Format
Small-format stores continue to become a strategic solution to meet the needs of consumers. Embracing innovative design concepts and new technology encourages grocers and designers to create convenient and efficient shopping experiences.
As a leader in grocery architecture, BRR’s designers work closely with each of our clients to execute their vision and create a successful store design in a variety of formats – both big and small. BRR is committed to pushing the boundaries of design and exploring the potential of small-format grocery while collaborating with our clients to create impactful spaces for their customers.
