Imperial Distributors

Commentary From Our President

Supermarkets are the Destination for Selling Holiday Goods

Michael D. Sleeper, President/CEO, Imperial Distributors, Inc.

Despite rising gas prices and a tougher economic climate, supermarkets are showcasing more holiday products than ever. Other channel retailers expect to post 3 to 4% sales gains in 2007 down from 4 to 5% a year ago, while food stores anticipate sales increases of 6-8% exceeding all other channels during the Holiday Season, according to a number of retail consulting firms.

Supermarkets are positioned to do very well from Thanksgiving through Christmas. The food industry has sourced more holiday merchandise. Products and displays are impactful and retails are more competitive. Shoppers are expected to prepare holiday meals vs. dining out. A decline in spending at restaurants seems inevitable. It all bodes well for food stores.

As for Seasonal General Merchandise, with product variety available at competitive prices and convenience to buy; impulse sales are bound to increase. The Holiday Season takes first place for peak traffic in a concentrated time frame. Holiday spirit puts shoppers in a spending mood more than at any other time of the year, and best of all, this season’s spending will focus on food, home décor, gifting and home entertaining. So supermarket shoppers will be buying a wider range of seasonal general merchandise this year.

As the 2007season rings with good cheer, the holidays will stretch us all in a positive way. We will outpace the competition and encourage consumers to think of supermarkets as their destination for holiday goods.

Let us all share in the joy of the season with best wishes for health, happiness and prosperity--Happy Holidays

For comments or questions, contact us by phone at 508-756-5156, or e-mail: msleeper@imperialdistributors.com

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