Sainsbury’s recently opened the doors to a superstore and this new destination is a pilot for a new hybrid retail format from the UK supermarket chain. The store blends elements of both a supermarket and a department store, making it a one-stop-shop that includes everything from a food court to a section for beauty and fragrance products.
In the Sainsbury’s store, shoppers will find integrated stores from household furnishings retailer Habitat and Sainsbury's subsidiary Argos, as well as plenty of food options from Wok Street, Little India Kitchen, Sushi Gourmet and more.
In terms of fashion, the store also makes Sainsbury’s Tu range accessible to consumers, which will help to solidify Sainsbury's as more than a supermarket brand in the minds of consumers going forward.
Supermarket-Department Stores
Sainsbury’s Superstore Features an Experimental Format
Trend Themes
1. Hybrid Retail Format - Explore the potential for combining elements of different types of stores to create new shopping experiences.
2. Integrated Retail - Consider incorporating other brands into a store to create a one-stop-shop for customers and potentially boost sales.
3. Food Court Expansion - Consider adding new food options and dining experiences to your retail store to enhance the customer experience.
Industry Implications
1. Supermarkets - Incorporate features typically found in department stores to increase revenue and encourage customers to spend more time in the store.
2. Department Stores - Expand food options and other experiences in your store to create a unique shopping destination.
3. Furniture and Home Furnishings Retailers - Consider collaborating with supermarkets to offer your products in-store, creating a new distribution channel.