USA Today reports that some grocery stores are incorporating elements like wood-fired ovens for pizza and wine bars, becoming more like "grocerants" to consumers. In turn, they are presenting more competition for fast-food chains and traditional restaurants. According to The NPD Group, grocerants generated 2.4 billion visits and $10 billion in sales in 2016. Additionally, grocerant visits have increased close to 30% since 2008.
Editor's Insight: The rise in consumers eating at the grocery store with better deli and eat-in options will threaten workplace refreshment. While micro-markets and pantry service offer greater convenience (employees don't have to leave), if the location doesn't provide a well-designed break room, it will be hard to keep consumers when there are so many competing choices.
