Associated Food Stores’ member retailers continue to see strong results from seasonal general merchandise (GM) sales, generating meaningful impact for both retailers and the wholesale team.
AFS GM category managers John Harris and Lisa Dall note that shopper behavior continues to evolve. Customers may be visiting fewer stores, but they are purchasing more when they find compelling, well-priced items at their local grocer.
“Retailers are doing an outstanding job selecting relevant products and merchandising them in ways that connect with customers,” said John. “When the assortment is right and the presentation is strong, shoppers respond.”
The recent GM Sale focused on winter holiday merchandise, providing retailers the opportunity to secure seasonal items designed to drive traffic and incremental sales during one of the busiest times of the year.
More than 150 individual members of Associated Food Stores attended the GM Show at the AFS corporate office, where they reviewed and ordered items for the upcoming season. With dozens of categories represented, the show was fast-paced and well attended.
“The GM Show was extremely successful,” said Lisa. “We heard very positive feedback from retailers, and we’re excited about the opportunities this seasonal program creates in their stores.”
GM Shows are held twice a year and require coordination across multiple teams. Category management assistants, warehouse partners and center store specialists all play an important role in delivering a strong event.
“We want to extend our gratitude to our core team, including Dani Delong, Bryan Duncan, Richard Watson, Matthew Blanken and Traci Tourreuil,” John said.
“We also appreciate the efforts of the center store specialists and the Salt Lake City warehouse teams. It takes planning and teamwork to make the GM seasonal program meaningful and successful for our retailers and their shoppers,” said Lisa.