Woolworths' new 'fast food' service part of 'next generation' retail

We’re constantly hearing about how people need services and products that better cater to busy, on-the-go lifestyles – and Woolworths has come to the party with a new “takeaway” service.

A dedicated drive-through, store-to-boot service is just one of the newest conveniences to be added at a so-called “next generation supermarket” in Brisbane’s inner northeast suburb of Ascot, meaning customers don’t even have to get out of their car to grab their groceries.

The Woolies store is also offering an in-house bakery serving made-to-order party cakes, a dedicated “cheese cave, ” a made-to-order sushi bar and a ready-to-go meals section.

Retail expert Dr Gary Mortimer, from Queensland University of Technology’s Business School, said supermarkets circa 2018 are all about speed, convenience, fresh produce and helping customers shop more easily.

“The old strategy of hiding milk at the back of the store has shifted,” Dr Mortimer said.

“Speed is the new currency for supermarket retailers.”

He added that supermarket shopping was essentially a “boring activity”, therefore retailers had to devise “new and interesting” things to entice the customer in – and away from their competitors.

Woolworths Queensland’s state manager Matthew Franich agrees.

“Our team has spent a great deal of time understanding how local customers like to shop and designed this store with their shopping needs in mind,” he said.

The new Queensland shop draws on elements which were added in the renewal of the Marrickville Metro store in Sydney earlier this year.

That store also had a ready-to-go section for products like fresh sandwiches and juice.

Dr Mortimer said supermarkets are continuing to invest in their fleet of stores to meet the ever-changing expectations of consumers.

“Even Aldi has refurbished and refreshed their stores,” Dr Mortimer.

“It just shows how vital it is for supermarkets to remain relevant and contemporary and new.

“I think what we will see is elements of these new 3.0 stores being replicated in existing stores.”