Creating the ultimate customer experience has been the focus for Billy’s Marketplace, located in the heart of Queens, New York. Customers will find a full-service fresh grocery store as well as a full coffee bar along with their superior craft beer bar known as “The Birreria.”
Navigating the challenges that the last two years have presented for the grocery industry has changed how the store must pivot. Owner Kelvin Rodriguez, explained some of the biggest challenges for his store, largely labor shortages. “With turnover and staffing shortages in general, it is tough to train for longevity.” Every place is hiring, and minimum wage increases have made staffing difficult today. Looking for system and training efficiencies is key to success right now; working with Alpha 1, Krasdale, and LOC Software has eased some of this pain.
“We import price and cost changes, along with receiving tags for our shelves; this eliminates someone having to stay at a computer and hand key this data, also ensuring cost is up to date, so reporting is accurate,” said Rodriguez. With the ability to work from a handheld device on the sales floor, including item maintenance and printing labels, they are available to customers in the store. Quickly making changes and staying in front of inventory helps stop depleting products on shelves with the latest supply shortages.
Cynthia Ramos, chief sales officer, speaks to the relationship between Billy’s and LOC Software.
“Working with the Kelvin and his team at Billy’s has been an honor. They are not afraid to embrace technology and try new things. In fact, when eWIC became available in New York, Kelvin was one of the first to reach out to serve his customers better. Working with LOC and Billy’s Marketplace, we could get this done quickly. We are fortunate to have such a loyal customer and look forward to helping Billy’s Marketplace expand in the future.”
Even with all of the challenges, Rodriguez is hopeful for the future. With his years in the industry, he has never seen something comparable to how COVID-19 affected people’s shopping habits. Although online shopping is at an all-time high, he is hopeful to see people return to the shopping experience.
Community is still the heart of the business; community donations and events are a staple for Billy’s. Holding an annual Billy’s Birthday Block Party calls on neighbors from everywhere! You will find weekends of food, music, fun, and giveaways, drawing quite the crowd of laughs and smiles.
To learn more about Billy’s Marketplace, visit billysmarketplace.com.
For more information about Alpha 1 Marketing, visit alpha1marketing.com.
For more about Krasdale Foods, visit krasdalefoods.com.
Brought to you by Rene Stai of LOC Software
