Will they? Won’t they? There seems to be a little flip-flopping behind Sears‘ strategy to provide groceries to its future companies. Earlier we reported that the struggling retailer intended to sell groceries. Subsequently, we had to amend the article after Sears got in touch with us and informed us they would not be selling groceries.
While Sears may not directly sell groceries to customers it looks like the brand will partner with a grocery supplier and sell fresh produce and food within sears, but operated in partnership.
The Financial Post is reporting that Sears Canada Inc. is looking to expand its plan to sell organic groceries and create “dash-buttons” to help customers shop from home.
The financial post article quotes Sears’ executive chairman Brandon Stranzl as saying the grocery offering will be “Kind of like Whole Foods at a Joe Fresh price,”
Sears Canada Inc. is looking to expand its plan to sell organic groceries and build so-called dash buttons to help customers purchase their favourite products from home as the retailer better known for tools and appliances looks to reinvent itself.
Additionally, in an effort to integrate the Sears brand into shoppers everyday lives, Sears plans on creating “dash buttons”. Dash buttons have been popular with mega brands like Tide who have partnered with e-commerce platforms like Amazon to create pushable buttons that are connected to online ordering system and live on a physical product. For example, Tide buttons can be attached to your laundry machine, when you are low on Tide, you simply push the button and Tide is automatically ordered to your house through a platform like Amazon.
According to the Financial Post, Sears reported a $45.8 – million loss in its most recent quarter, and the brand is trying desperately to diverse its product offering in an effort to appeal to a new customer.
The interesting question will be can Sears attract customers with food? Brands like Ikea have been successful bringing customers in with food options, and Loblaws di the reverse attracting customers in with clothing options.
Source: The Financial Post