After lagging behind in food and beverage over the past few years, Target hopes bringing in a fresh perspective will sharpen its aim on groceries.
The Minneapolis-based company hired Jeff Burt, who has 30+ years of experience in grocery – most recently as president of Kroger’s Fred Meyer division – to be its new senior vice president of grocery, fresh food and beverage.
The company hosted a Q&A with Burt on its blog.
>Burt’s Father worked for Kroger for nearly 50 years, and he started tagging along to store openings at age 7.
>He started at Kroger as an order clerk in a Detroit warehouse. “At every step along the way, I’ve met amazing people. Those people, and my love of food and sales, continue to keep me energized.”
>The biggest challenge facing grocery retailers: “Consumers’ rapidly-changing tastes … For example, really fresh food is important – and will still be important 100 years from now. There’s years and years-worth of opportunity, so retailers have to get it right. And with consumers “dashboard dining” or eating meals all over the place, we need to have fresh, ready-made meals and the right assortment in place.”
Target hopes to define “a differentiated guest experience through a curated assortment, quality products and competitive prices” with its grocery category.
“I’m confident Jeff is the right person for the change,” said Mark Tritton, executive vice president and chief merchandising officer, in a news release. “His vast industry expertise will accelerate our plans to bring a unique food and beverage experience to Target guests.”