Whether you’re looking for a particular item or you simply want to browse, there are a number of ways you can navigate to the closest grocery store. You’ll need to know where the nearest one is, and then you’ll need to plan ahead to be sure that you’ll get what you need.
Distances between households and the nearest and third-nearest grocery store
Despite what many believe, food shopping behavior is not as simple as it seems. The National Household Food Acquisition and Purchase Survey found that an average American household would prefer to shop at a supermarket that is farther away from home. However, a significant proportion of African Americans reported unfair treatment at supermarkets, regardless of distance from home. Similarly, a study of the relationship between grocery stores and poverty showed a negative correlation.
Urban residents pay higher prices for groceries, and spend more time traveling to the store, in part because of a lack of supermarkets in their area. In addition, the food industry makes decisions based on stereotypes, and many people of color are disproportionately affected by discrimination. The industry’s attitude towards grocery stores, which has been dubbed “supermarket redlining”, is similar to the residential redlining that occurs in many communities. Its decision-making is based on the reputation of a neighborhood and stereotypes of gross income. In a recent study, Zenk and colleagues compared fair treatment at supermarkets when shoppers were shopping in their own neighborhoods and when they were shopping outside of their neighborhood. While they found no difference in distances between the home and the nearest and third-nearest grocery store, the level of discrimination was significantly greater in those neighborhoods where the majority of the population is African American.
While the data collected for this study applies only to the United States, the findings may also be applicable to other areas of the country. The research is also important because it provides insight into how race influences the grocery industry’s decision-making process. It also shows that food shopping behavior does not always follow the conventional assumptions, and discrimination can heighten stress.
Parking spaces for persons with disabilities
Having designated handicap parking spaces can help you get to the grocery store safely. But you must know where these spots are located. This is where your local disability commission or your state DMV can help you. Depending on your state, you may have to apply for an accessible permit. Some states even offer a parking symbol that you can put on your license plate to show your disability. You might also be able to borrow an accessible placard from a friend or family member.
You can check the accessibility area at a local mall or grocery store before you make your trip. The first step is to ensure that all vehicles in the accessible parking area have an accessible parking placard. If not, report the problem to the parking department of your local community. They can investigate the issue and find out if the place is not complying with the law.
If you cannot find an accessible space, you may want to ask the store employee or a customer service representative for another option. These parking spaces are located near entrances to building and are wider than regular parking spaces. The accessible parking spot you choose must be the shortest route to the business entrance.
You can also take advantage of online accessibility parking applications. The term and renewal period for an accessible parking permit will vary from state to state. You should check with your state’s DMV to learn more about your eligibility and to obtain a placard. Getting a placard can take up to four weeks, but this may vary. You should keep your placard for six months, but you can renew it as long as you apply for a new one.
Strategies for outsmarting the store
Various strategies are used by grocery stores to make their money go further and to get you to buy more. One of the more interesting tactics is to create a store specialty. This can be anything from gourmet cheeses to a meat free selection. The extra costs can be offset by income from the specialization.
A smart shopper will also take into consideration the time and energy involved in getting to the store. Some grocery stores are located in convenient locations. This makes it ideal for working families who are short on time. They can scour the aisles for the best deals. They should also consider the convenience of in house specialty larger stations.
If you’re thinking about opening a store, it’s a good idea to have a business plan in place. This will give you a roadmap to success. You should also implement a strategic marketing plan to help you stay competitive and keep up with the competition.
