Americans still prefer in-store grocery shopping over buying online

American consumers still overwhelmingly prefer to buy groceries in stores rather than online, according to a survey sponsored by facilities management company Vixxo. Not surprisingly, the research also found that providing an exceptional in-store experience and high food quality are key drivers for keeping supermarket customers happy and loyal.

About 1,260 U.S. consumers were surveyed about their attitudes and buying preferences, and some of the results are as follows:

• 87% of consumers prefer to shop in person (including 96% of baby boomers and 81% of millennials)
• 84% of consumers said that they liked the ability to inspect and select their own products
• 60% of consumers said that they favor the atmosphere and experience of shopping in brick-and-mortar stores
• Approximately 25% of respondents said that they buy prepared food from their grocery stores
• 14% of consumers said that they shop in only one grocery store
• Millennials are three times more likely than any other age group to say that they enjoy the social interactions they experience in grocery stores

Costco spends $22 million to privatize liquor sales in Washington

A ballot measure that would allow grocery stores and warehouse clubs to sell liquor in Washington state beginning June 1, 2012 passed earlier this week. A bill that will allow the privatization of liquor sales in Pennsylvania has been talked about for some time, but many feel it's unlikely such a measure will pass here anytime soon, despite a recent state-commissioned study that concluded the state's liquor stores should be privatized. (See my 7/29/11 blog post - Privatization of liquor sales would create opportunity for supermarkets.)

Washington residents can thank Costco for the measure's passage. According to multiple reports, the warehouse club raised $22 million for the Yes campaign, a coalition formed to promote the measure and convince residents to vote yes. In all, the campaign raised $23 million. Other supporters included Safeway and Trader Joe's.

Washington joins West Virginia and Iowa as the latest states to transition away from state run liquor stores.

According to sponsors of the measure, stores in Washington state that sell liquor will have to be 10,000 square feet or more. Retail stores approved for licenses will pay 17% of their gross revenues from liquor sales to the state, while distributors will pay 10% for the first two years and 5% thereafter.

Costco, if you have another $22 million handy, would you consider throwing it towards privatization in Pennsylvania? All I want is the ability to mix and match a case of beer. Please?