Super Market Layouts

Super markets could do good by changing their layout. A space where produce, meat, nuts and other whole foods are showcased over processed foods that come in bags, boxes and plastic, could help influence the food choices people make. It’s something I realized the last time I stepped into our local Sprouts.

We have a Whole Foods directly across the street from us (and I have Prime which entitles us to some discounts). A couple of blocks further is Sprouts. But despite its proximity, my familiarity with the brand, and my Prime membership, I kept finding myself drawn to Sprouts for my grocery shopping. It felt better, but I wasn’t sure why.

The last time we walked into Sprouts I understood why. 80 percent of their store is devoted to showcasing fruit, vegetables, bulk nuts and dried fruit, meat and fish, all in an open and inviting layout. The remaining 20 percent is shelves filled with the typical (healthy versions) of packaged foods.

By contrast, the produce, fruit, meat and fish section in Whole Foods feels claustrophobic. It feels like you’re not meant to spend much time there. Like it’s just a funnel to get you into the aisles where processed food abounds. It feels like an afterthought instead of the main attraction. But it made me think.

What influence could the layout of a grocery store have on the habits of individuals? Whole Foods still far exceeds most grocers in the country, and to be sure is a privilege. But if every store looked like Sprouts, and lured you in with the right foods, what impact would it have?

I know personally, it gets me excited about the food I’m going to eat, and I’m sure it would do that for millions of other people as well.