Fresh fruits and vegetables are important for healthy eating. Many shoppers pick grocery stores based on produce quality. Some stores do a great job with fresh items. But others get complaints from customers often. Reviews and surveys suggest some chains disappoint shoppers more. Here are seven stores sometimes named for poor produce.
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Walmart
Walmart attracts millions with its low prices on a vast range of goods. However, its produce department is often a point of contention. Shoppers who are focused on quality frequently express dissatisfaction. Common complaints mention produce that spoils very quickly after purchase. Others note inconsistent quality control and limited variety, especially organic options.
Kroger (and banners like King Soopers)
As one of the nation’s largest traditional grocery operators, Kroger stores offer a wide selection. Yet, reviews regarding produce quality are often mixed. This applies to the Kroger name and its various regional banners. Some customers report issues with freshness or finding bruised items. Others feel displays seem less appealing than what competitors offer.
Safeway (and banners like Albertsons)
Albertsons Companies operates numerous supermarket banners, including Safeway. Similar to Kroger, these full-service stores sometimes draw shopper complaints. Concerns occasionally arise regarding produce freshness and longevity at home. Some shoppers feel the quality doesn’t always justify the price point. This is especially true compared to stores known for premium produce.
Save A Lot
Save A Lot operates under a limited-assortment discount model. It prioritizes low prices on essential grocery items. This strategy extends to its produce section. The selection is typically quite small and offers only basic items. Save A Lot generally doesn’t aim to compete on produce variety or peak freshness.
Giant Eagle
This grocery chain operates primarily in the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic regions. In some customer satisfaction surveys, Giant Eagle occasionally ranks lower. Perceptions of its produce department might contribute to this. Some shoppers may find the quality or variety less compelling. They might also perceive prices as high for the quality received.
Piggly Wiggly
Piggly Wiggly stores are predominantly found in the South and Midwest. They often operate as independent franchises. This ownership structure means quality can vary significantly by location. While some individual stores might excel, the chain overall isn’t typically highlighted. Surveys usually don’t rank it high for outstanding produce quality.
Target
Target has significantly expanded its grocery offerings for convenience. However, its roots are in general merchandise, apparel, and home goods. The grocery section, especially produce, often reflects this secondary focus. Selection can be limited, particularly in smaller stores. Quality may not consistently match dedicated supermarkets prioritizing food.
Setting Produce Priorities
When fresh, high-quality produce is a top shopping priority, certain chains receive more criticism. Customer feedback suggests large discounters may sacrifice produce quality. Even major supermarkets can face challenges with consistency across locations. Shopper reports indicate stores emphasizing freshness often perform better. However, this emphasis might come with higher prices overall.
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