What kinds of information are effective in persuading corner store owners to stock and sell healthy foods?
Corner stores are businesses and need to make money in order to survive, so it’s important to ‘speak their language’ and communicate how they can make money by selling healthy foods. Documenting unmet demand for healthy food items and which items neighbors want to buy is very persuasive, especially if this is backed up by customers requesting and then buying the healthy items. Providing samples of food products for store owners to see, taste, and touch also may build their interest. Sharing information about the potential returns from selling fresh, healthy products also can be compelling. Profit margins on dairy, bread, meat, and fresh produce often range from 25% to 50% or more. The profit margin for value-added fresh products like cut fruits or salads can be more than 100%. However, it’s important that store operators understand the extra skill, effort, and infrastructure required to realize these potential profits, and consider the option of starting out with some less perishable h
Related Questions
- How can corner store initiatives link with broader efforts to develop healthy communities and provide access to healthy foods for everyone?
- What are some of the biggest challenges that need to be addressed in order for corner stores to stock and sell healthy foods successfully?
- Can corner stores stock and sell fresh produce successfully?
