WinCo aims to be the low-cost leader in all of its markets and has quickly grabbed market share in every new territory it has entered.The challenge will not be easy though due to the extraordinary variety of grocery offerings in the Phoenix metro area, which according to AZCentral include:
...mainstream chains Fry's, Walmart, Safeway, Albertsons and Bashas', there are niche players Sprouts, Trader Joe's, Whole Foods and Fresh & Easy, along with Hispanic markets Food City, Pro's Ranch Markets and El Super. Retail chains Target, Walgreens and CVS also have recently expanded their grocery sections.Many more names could be added to the above list, but I think the point is made that this will surely be WinCo's toughest market yet.
The employee owned store's description may sound similar to current valley stores like Fresh & Easy on one side and Costco on the other:
Typical stores have concrete floors and metal racks and display much of the merchandise on pallets. There are separate meat, seafood, bakery and deli departments and large bulk-food areas...While they are not necessarily warehouse stores, the "Wall of Values," where WinCo displays its special buys, is reminiscent of Costco or Sam's Club. To keep down costs, customers bag their own groceries and can't pay with a credit card because of the high transaction fees charged by the issuing banks. Debit cards are accepted, along with cash and checks.Check out interior photos of WinCo via their Facebook page.
WinCo's first two ventures will be located at 330 W. Bell Rd. Phoenix, AZ 85023 and 5850 W. Bell Rd. Glendale, AZ 85308. The Phoenix store is a former Walmart spot while the Glendale location used to be a Costco. In addition, while not ready to make any announcements, WinCo has also looked into further Glendale locations and a possible Gilbert store.
You can get more information and read about customer experience with WinCo at AZCentral.
