SpartanNash unveils new platform for independent grocers
Michigan-based food solutions company SpartanNash, has announced its newest platform that will aid independent grocers.
First covered by Store Brands’ sister publication Progressive Grocer, SpartanNash has launched SpecialtyDirect: an online platform that enables SpartanNash’s 2,100 independent grocer customers to easily browse thousands of available private label product options, place orders and pay consolidated invoices.
“It’s our promise to continue bringing the best innovation for our customers as shopping habits evolve,” said SpartanNash SVP and chief merchandising officer Bennett Morgan. “We’re here to ensure independent grocers have everything they need to respond to their customers’ tastes and preferences, without taking away from their valuable time spent managing their grocery stores, servicing their shoppers and supporting their in-store team members. As a customer-focused food solutions company, this is just another distribution benefit we can offer our independent customers to deliver on the ingredients for a better life.”
Through supply partner Specialty Foods Partners (SFP), SpartanNash SpecialtyDirect aims to make the company’s independent grocery customers more competitive by boosting their access to specialty, seasonal and local items so they can tailor their product assortments to their shoppers’ preferences as they evolve.
“There is a misconception that only large metro areas have the need for trending and specialty grocery products, but that is definitely not the case and has really shifted over the last few years, resulting in broader demand for these products,” said Tony Lee, founder and CEO of Stamford, Conn.-based SFP. “SpartanNash is an ideal partner for us, because the company’s expansive distribution network to many independent grocery stores across America’s heartland means shoppers don’t have to live in a major city to satisfy their newest flavor exploration or try the latest startup brand.”
SpartanNash owns and operates 145 supermarket locations under several banners including Family Fare, Martin’s Super Markets, D&W Fresh Market and more, along with a private label collection. The Grand Rapids, Mich.-based company serves customer locations in all 50 states and the District of Columbia, Europe, Cuba, Puerto Rico, Honduras, Iraq, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar and Djibouti.