MONTREAL – Quebeckers can soon stop in at IGA express, a new concept in small format neighbourhood markets that is unique in Quebec. Why the new store format? To meet the needs of people in a hurry or on the road and who refuse to compromise when it comes to the quality of what they're eating.
Grab a healthy meal no matter what the hour
"IGA express is a cross between a supermarket, convenience store, and a fast food restaurant, designed to help Quebeckers eat better on the run. We went in search of what was working best in the world and came back inspired to develop this winning formula for our customers," explains Claude Tessier, president of Sobeys Québec.
Products and packaging specially designed for people on the move, such as cut veggies in a container that fits a car's cup holder, will be available to consumers. And a bistro section will offer top quality ready-to-eat dishes prepared in store. They'll be perfect for takeout or to enjoy at one of the bistro tables.
IGA express stores are also designed for people without much time to cook. The "Table ready in 20" section proposes meals to make at home in less than 20 minutes, with all the ingredients right at the customers' fingertips. It will undoubtedly become a favourite stop for consumers. Fresh products will also be front and centre. Whether you need marinated chicken breasts, ready-to-cook vegetables, or a fresh baguette for supper, you'll find what you need at the same regular IGA store prices.
Each IGA express store will be paired with a Shell service station, and some will offer grocery carry out service. This one-stop shop will be practical for workers, for instance, who need to fill up the car and pick up a breakfast sandwich on the way into the office.
IGA: synonymous with quality
"The choice to use the IGA name for this new grocery store concept sets the bar high for the banner," explains Christiane Locas, Vice President of Sobeys Québec Multi-Banner Branch and one of the concept creators. "We want consumers to know that they'll find the same quality products and services at an IGA express store that they do in larger IGA supermarkets. The IGA name is a guarantee of quality."
IGA express stores will be run mainly by independent retailers who are passionate about their business and actively involved in their communities. Since supporting Quebec products is part of their DNA, a good selection of local products will be available.
"For us IGA express represents a revolution in the food industry. That's why we're planning to invest over 100 million dollars with our partners over the next five years to support the rollout of this concept throughout the province," concludes Tessier.
IGA express will have a younger sibling: IGA mini
Watch for IGA mini stores, a smaller version of this new grocery store concept when space is more limited. Inevitably, IGA express stores will carry a wider variety of products, but you can expect the same high quality in both store formats.
The first IGA express store is scheduled to open in Saint-Augustin-de-Desmaures, in the Quebec City region, this December 2013.
About IGA
IGA is the largest group of independent grocers in Canada and has been established in Quebec since 1953. The 279 IGA merchants are constantly seeking new ways to better serve their customers. IGA is the only group of food retailers that offers customers the opportunity to accumulate AIR MILES® reward miles.
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Source: IGA