Among the many criticisms leveled against grocery stores that rely on slotting allowances and other supplier fees to operate their businesses is that these charges result in higher prices to consumers and a degree of sameness — a sort of dumbing down of merchandising creativity — across locations. That’s what makes a recent Washington Post article, which suggests Whole Foods is moving to a similar system to operate its business, a head scratcher.
According to the report, the grocer has sent an email to suppliers informing them that its shelf space, displays and in-store sampling will be set based in part on contributions made by vendors.
