“Why is there so much plastic in the produce department?” Are your store-level team members prepared for that question? The answer doesn’t have to be complicated.
Since your clerks probably get more customer inquiries than anyone else, it just makes sense to equip them with some context around what can be a complex topic.
1. Packaging protects delicate produce items as they travel across the country. Berries, grape tomatoes, cherries and kiwifruit are a few examples.
2. Packaging lets grocery stores offer convenience items – like salad kits, broccoli florets and mango slices, for instance – by keeping them fresh after they are cut.
3. Packaging gives fruit and vegetable growers a place to tell their story. It gives you more information about where your food comes from, and it helps them distinguish their product in the marketplace.
Of course, your team members can also tell shoppers (if indeed this is the case) that your company has its eyes out for other packaging options besides plastic and will explore the ones it believes could provide the same protection, shelf life and – importantly – value for its customers.
Sustainability is a big topic, but it makes sense for the folks with whom your shoppers interact to be able to talk about at least the most relevant, bite-size pieces of it.