According to our U.S. Grocery Shopper Trends research, shoppers cited a clean and safe environment as one of the top reasons grocery shoppers choose their primary store. Living through COVID-19 has certainly emphasized the need for safety and changed the way consumers shop. It’s only natural to assume that consumers will continue to want a clean, safe environment when they do shop in-stores, while retaining the option to order groceries online. There are a few key factors that I believe will play heavily into store development going forward.

Working under the threat of an invisible enemy during the COVID-19 pandemic, these leaders have adapted, donning even more hats than ever before. Our Store Manager Awards shine a light on the industry’s premier store manager talent. In May, we will recognize 12 finalists in contention for this great honor. In June, we will announce our final winners for 2021. But today, we proudly recognize the 77 nominees that have been nominated for a Store Manager Award.

As a result, retailers need to increasingly focus on how to succeed with fresh across their omnichannel enterprises. They have to make sure fresh remains a differentiator regardless of the selling channel — from in-store to ecommerce.

Ninety-two percent of retailers believe that it is important for store associates take a retail-specific food safety training program. FMI is proud to deliver the SafeMark® Food Handler and Food Manager training programs – programs developed by retailers, for retailers.