Refreshed format for Stop & Shop

Quincy, Mass.-based Stop & Shop, described by food conglomerate Ahold Delhaize USA as its largest banner in terms of sales, unveiled a new look in 21 of its stores in the Hartford, Conn. area.

“The new look comes with a $70-million capital investment to improve the in-store experience with a focus on delivering more fresh, fast, local and healthy options so busy customers can get back to what matters most,” Ahold Delhaize said in a press release.  

The store reboot will feature a new logo, which Ahold Delhaize said “is a nod to the brand’s past and its legacy of breaking new ground in convenience.” The updates will reflect a customer-centric approach and a commitment to reshape the shopping experience around the customer and their evolving needs, the press release added.  

Hartford stores will also serve as a pilot test for features such as in-store meat smokers, poke bowls and taqueria stations, additional space for fresh produce and locally grown and produced items, and frictionless checkout service, the press release said. Curbside pickup of grocery orders assembled via automation will also be possible, thanks to a partnership with Takeoff Technologies.

“Stop & Shop is also investing heavily to lower prices on thousands of items that customers purchase most, while offering a larger assortment of affordable items from own-brand lines such as Nature’s Promise,” the press release added.

“We recognize that our customers are changing, and we’re evolving our entire shopping experience to better serve them. They’re focused on getting back to their lives, juggling many responsibilities and we want to make grocery shopping even easier and faster for them,” said Stop & Shop President Mark McGowan. “Hartford is the first step in our journey towards repositioning our brand for future success and in helping our communities enjoy better food and better lives.”