Kroger Tests Turkey Hill Minit Market Convenience Stores in Central Ohio

Kroger is out to prove that it can successfully cross several retail segments to meet shopper demand.

December 02, 2013

COLUMBUS – Cincinnati-based Kroger is testing its Turkey Hill Minit Market convenience store concept in Central Ohio, hoping to bridge the gap between grocery and one-stop shopping for merchandise typically found in larger grocery stores, such as fresh produce and packaged and prepared foods.

“It’s a one-stop-for-all store, for me,” a shopper told the Columbus Dispatch of the new Turkey Hill store. “It’s so convenient. And it has some good deals.”

At 7,500 square feet, the recently opened Turkey Hill is smaller than the average Kroger store (67,000 square feet), but it’s about 70% larger than the retailer’s typical c-store size (4,000 square feet). However, shoppers are receptive to being about to buy grocery store fare in a quick and convenient location.

“Shoppers want speed, they want fresh, they want convenience, and they want value,” Craig Rosenblum, a partner at Willard Bishop, told the Columbus Dispatch. He added that shopper needs are driving retailers, such as Kroger and Walmart, to open multiple store formats, both large and small.

The Turkey Hill offer shoppers typical convenience store fare, such as fountain drinks, hot dogs, pizza by the slice and packaged beverages. The store sells fuel and has a car wash, which Kroger customers can redeem their fuel points at.

“This store crosses several segments,” Brad Chivington, marketing vice president at Turkey Hill Minit Markets, told the newspaper, adding, “We try to send the message that we can take care of many customers’ needs at this location. And we work in partnership with Kroger.”

Darel Pfeiff, president of Turkey Hill Minit Markets, told the newspaper in a written statement: “It’s the best of both worlds when it comes to a retail model for gasoline and car wash service, fresh groceries, quality meats and produce, and hot meals, along with the snacks, beverages, and the everyday necessities people count on at traditional convenience stores.”

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