Save A Lot’s move to a pure wholesaler

In early August discount grocery store operator Save A Lot sold the last of its 18 stores to become a wholesaler and licensor to the Save A Lot store network.It was a natural transition for Saint Ann, Mo., based retailer, which will now focus on providing the right core offering and the right framework for its network of independent retailers.“As we’ve made a strategic shift to become a licensed wholesaler, it’s clear that our long-term growth momentum must be rooted in the success of our strong network of retail partners,” said Leon Bergmann, CEO of Save A Lot, in a statement following the 18-store selloff.The move to a wholesaler actually started in 2019 before Bergmann became CEO of Save A Lot, but he believes it was the right move to make. Bergmann sat down with Supermarket News Senior Editor Bill Wilson to talk about the move to a full-fledged wholesaler as well as other topics like food deserts and grocery price inflation, which Bergmann believes has not reached its peak.In this episode you will hear about:Why Save A Lot made the pivot to the wholesale levelHow Save A Lot will focus on fresh offerings in its distribution networkSave A Lot’s strategy to promote a fresh approachSave A Lot’s pricing approach throughout its networkThe impact of food deserts in the U.S.The status of grocery price inflation<br/>Take a listen.**Have a pitch for the podcast? Reach out at contactus@supermarketnews.com. And thanks for listening.