Whole Foods has long been regarded as the most innovative retailer in the food sector, leading the way not only with natural and organic selections but also with smart store design, green building practices and outstanding visual merchandising. The company might have lost some momentum during the recession of 2008-09, but it has recovered through its insistence on never wavering on quality or principle. Shoppers know what Whole Foods stands for. And, as health and environmental consciousness continue to be important elements in consumers’ food choices, Whole Foods continues to dominate that sector of the marketplace.
Peter Glen was a designer, consultant, industry critic, motivational speaker and VMSD columnist prior to his death in 2001. The award goes annually to the company that meets his demanding criteria for smart retailing, market awareness, innovation and an intuitive understanding of who its customers are and what they want, need and expect.
The award will be presented during VMSD’s International Retail Design Conference, September 7-9 in San Francisco. For more information, visit www.irdconline.com.