Raley's Supermarkets to offer better-for-you choices at checkout

FAIR OAKS, Calif. — Raley's is following the lead of other retailers, including perhaps most notably CVS, in converting the space at checkout into a showcase for better-for-you snacks.

The California-based supermarket chain says it has implemented better-for-you checkout stands throughout the chain. This includes removing all artificially sweetened sodas from the check stand cold cases, while also upgrading the selection of snacks and treats. The effort also includes expanding offerings such as granola bars and nutrition bars and improving the quality of certain candy options.

“We know impulsive choices happen at the check stand,” said Keith Knopf, Raley’s COO. “We are proud to take a brave next step by making it easier for shoppers to choose healthy, more nutritious options.”

Last month, Raley’s began offering free fruit for kids. In August, it eliminated Raley’s private label brand soda that contained high-fructose corn syrup and artificial colors and flavors, including diet soda varieties. In 2015, Raley’s eliminated tobacco products from stores. 

In addition to all of these changes in the store experience, Raley’s has launched a “Let’s Begin” campaign in stores and on Raleys.com that helps educate customers on how to make more informed decisions when purchasing food.

Raley's joins other retailers, including CVS, which have jumped on wellness merchandising trends early.

In October, Judy Sansone, SVP front store business and loyalty and chief merchant for CVS Health, told Drug Store News that the priority is “leading with an assortment that helps our customers take care of their health both proactively as well as when they need acute care."