The Griffin Report recently chatted with Kevin McDonnell, president of Price Rite Marketplace, about the state of the supermarket industry in Rhode Island.
How would you describe Price Rite Marketplace’s product assortment strategy and the factors that influence that approach?
At Price Rite Marketplace, our focus is on creating a curated assortment of products that reflects every community we serve. Not only do consumer preferences vary state by state but also community to community. We customize our offerings at each store to reflect the unique demographics and cultural preferences of each neighborhood we serve.
Our store teams are deeply connected to their communities, which allows us to remain responsive as needs evolve over time.
In a state where consumers are increasingly looking for affordability and have a growing interest in fresh, local and specialty items, how does Price Rite Marketplace strike that balance?
We are committed to providing high-quality products at a great value. As a wholly owned subsidiary of Wakefern Food Corp., we’re able to keep costs low while maintaining high standards for freshness and quality. Fresh foods, particularly produce and meat, are the cornerstone of our business.
We also partner with local produce vendors to source in-season, locally grown items throughout the year. In addition, we carry a number of local and regional brands that align with the preferences of our customers.
Additionally, we’ve seen growing interest in more niche items, and we’re able to deliver those within a budget-conscious model. Our customers get true value – great products at great prices.
Rhode Island has a strong presence of national grocery giants and a passionate base of independent grocers. How does Price Rite Marketplace position itself competitively against these two?
Price Rite Marketplace sits in a unique space … as part of the Wakefern Food Corp., we’re able to combine the entrepreneurial spirit of independent grocers with the scale and efficiency of a larger operation.
This hybrid model enables us to swiftly adjust product assortments as community needs change and provide fresh, high-quality foods at everyday low prices.
Beyond product, what specific community initiatives does Price Rite Marketplace undertake in Rhode Island and how important is that for your success in the state?
Our commitment to the state goes far beyond the products we carry. In Rhode Island, we’ve partnered with organizations like Feed the Children and the Boys and Girls Club through our “Feeding Minds and Bodies” campaign – most recently hosting an event in Providence this past March.
We’ve also worked with the Woonsocket Boys and Girls Club to support college-bound students and contribute to the Rhode Island Youth of the Year program.
Every year, Price Rite Marketplace partners with the Rhode Island Community Food Bank through our “Meals for Kids” initiative – donating $50,000 this year – and our team regularly volunteers time at the food bank to pack meals for families in need.
[RELATED: Price Rite Marketplace Raises $23K For Local Food Banks]
What are the specific challenges or opportunities Price Rite Marketplace faces in terms of staffing and retaining talent in Rhode Island?
We’re fortunate to have incredibly dedicated team members across our Rhode Island locations – some of which have been operating for over 25 years.
One of our greatest strengths is our commitment to promoting from within. Many of our current assistant store managers, store managers and even district managers started as entry-level team members.
Are there particular strategies you’ve found effective in building a strong team in this state?
Building a strong team starts with listening, investing in people and creating real opportunities for those who see Price Rite Marketplace as more than just a job – but a long-term career.
How does Price Rite Marketplace engage with or adapt to the unique legislative and regulatory environment for grocery retail in Rhode Island?
Price Rite Marketplace stays engaged with the local, state and federal government through ongoing grassroots advocacy. We encourage store managers and team members to voice support for legislation that impacts independent grocers.
We’ve also participated in the National Grocers Association’s Fly-In on Capitol Hill, where our leadership meets directly with lawmakers to discuss industry issues – including pricing transparency, fair competition and support for local food systems.
Looking ahead, what are Price Rite Marketplace’s biggest opportunities for growth or improvement within Rhode Island?
We’re committed to continued growth across all of our markets – including Rhode Island and the broader New England region. We’re opening a new store in Waterbury, Connecticut this fall and are excited to build on that momentum.
As we look ahead, we see an opportunity in continuing to tailor our product offerings to local communities, expand our fresh food assortment and further enhance our digital shop.