TRADER Joe's CEO has squashed some rumors regarding the future of the grocery chain and made an announcement that has many customers excited.
In the latest episode of the Insider Trader Joe's podcast, CEO Bryan Palbaum and Vice CEO Jon Basalone, hinted at expansion plans and affirmed store policies.
The California-based chain has become a popular choice for shoppers looking to find great deals on fresh produce, seasonal snacks, and frozen staples.
For months, rumors have been circulating about the potential modernization of some storefronts, with talks of everything from drive-throughs to in-store dining options.
The brand has made it clear that they have no plans for either service, according to Palbaum, who quickly responded "false" to both suggestions.
Self-checkout is another area that the brand isn't willing to test out, unlike many other large grocers.
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Stores like Costco and Wegmans have opted to allow their customers to scan and pay for their own items, aiming to reduce wait times for shoppers.
Trader Joe's executives have decided that they value human interaction over self-checkout options.
“[Self-checkout rumors are] as false as false can be, because we believe in people and we’re not trying to get rid of our crew members for efficiency's sake,” Basalone explained.
Palbaum added that he wants to provide exceptional customer service, which they believe is best achieved by customer to employee interaction.
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“It’s not fun… I have fun bagging groceries and working at the register. Self-checkout is work. I don't want that," the CEO noted.
While there are no plans to add any self-checkout stations, the store does intend to add more locations to the roster.
"We're going to keep doing what we're doing, but we're going to grow," Basalone announced.
"The newness comes from the new customers we're going to be able to reach, the new products that we're going to see on our shelves, and the new opportunities for the crew members..."
Palbaum reiterated the opportunity to reach new customers with new stores.
“[Expect] opening more stores, newer locations, and new geographies. What might feel old to us is brand-new to all those new customers, wherever they may be, even in our existing stores.”
Trader Joe's currently has 530 stores nationwide.