Still, says Newton, it s no secret we are overstored. Kroger s, the No. 2 chain nationally, has pulled out of the market and Winn-Dixie has pulled back, closing several stores. The newest competitors to the supermarket industry come from the major discount retailers, such as Wal-mart, now the largest grocery seller in the country. Bi-Lo is placing Starbuck s cafes in two stores in addition to 30 kiosks already in operation. Piggly Wiggly has expanded its loyalty card program to include Greenbax stamps and discounts at a number of local restaurants, hotels and services.
Success according to industry sources comes from sales volume driven by market share.