There are few national chains admired for their innovative approach to retailing – but most people would agree that Trader Joe’s is unique in the crowded field of American grocery stores.

There are several things Trader Joe’s does differently that independent retailers might want to emulate:

1. Their inventory consists of about 4,000 SKUs compared to the 30,000 to 50,000 items typically found in supermarkets. Curating their selection makes their stores smaller and therefore more manageable for shoppers.  Fewer choices reduce what is called “customer decision fatigue.”
2. If an item doesn’t sell well, they discontinue it. They know they have limited shelf space (don’t we all?) and drop products that don’t meet their sales criteria. This turnover means they are constantly making room for new products.
3. They almost always have their top selling products in stock. Their Product Hall of Fame highlights the items that people come from far and near to buy, including favorites such as tiny avocados, Unexpected Cheddar, and Mandarin Orange Chicken.
4. Private label products create customer loyalty, because shoppers know they can’t get the same items elsewhere. 
5. Seasonal introductions that are only available for a limited time create the excitement of scarcity.  Just ask anyone who didn’t get their Candy Cane JoJos at Christmas!
6. They invest in their staff, offering highly competitive rates of pay and employee benefits. Their employees are trained to emphasize the friendly”customer-first” culture that TJ’s is known for.

We are fortunate to have one of only three Wisconsin locations of TJ’s just a block from our store, which is a great draw for Monroe Street. Trader Joe’s is known for its neighborhood store atmosphere, and although corporate policy unfortunately does not allow them to participate in our shared promotional events, they are a welcome addition to our business district. 

Happy Retailing,
Carol “Orange” Schroeder