Target Virginia store remodelling

Photo credit: P. Kevin Morley, Times-Dispatch

Target is re-designing three of its stores in Richmond, Virginia, to boost by 40 per cent its grocery offer, according to a report by the Richmond Times Dispatch.

The remodelling is expected to be completed in March when the stores will carry “basic fresh produce, fresh packaged meats and baked goods”, said Target spokeswoman Erin Conroy.

The company explained that more of its outlets could undergo a similar overhaul as it seeks to remodel its store portfolio nationwide.

Target began adding a larger assortment of grocery items, including dairy and frozen foods, to its area stores several years ago.

According to industry experts, Target’s grocery expansions in other markets have led to sales increases, including a 20 per cent rise in food sales in Philadelphia.

The expansion apparently comes in response to consumer demand.

A number of other retailers, including Kroger and H.E.B, are also remodelling and expanding stores as part of similar efforts as fresh food retailing remains buoyant during the economic downturn.