Coles on Wednesday launched bulk sizes for 25 popular products in stores across the country, offering per unit prices up to 63 per cent off standard sizes.
The move comes on the heels of reports on Monday that the supermarket is reformatting some 400 stores, with half to be focused on a premium convenience offer, and half to be focused on value.
“We know our customers look for value when stocking up on pantry staples and offering some of our popular products in bulk is one way we are helping our customers save time and manage the family budget,” Greg Davis, Coles’ COO, said in a statement about the launch of bulk sizes.
Barilla pasta, which is usually sold in 500g boxes for $1.95, is available in a 5kg bag for $14, a 28 per cent saving. Panko Breadcrumbs, which are usually sold in a 200g bag for $2.70, are available in a 1kg box for $5.
Customers can buy a range of family dinner staples, such as San Remo Cous Cous, condiments, such as Kewpie Mayonnaise, baking products and special treats, such as Froot Loops and Mini Mallows, in bulk.
Coles said in a statement that stock may vary from store to store, and that the bulk sizes are available while stock lasts. Inside Retail has asked for clarification on whether the bulk sizes will be a permanent addition to Coles’ range.
On Monday, the AFR reported that Coles is taking a two-pronged approach to gain market share and grow sales, with some stores to be reformatted towards convenience, with a bigger range of ready-to-eat meals, and some stores to be reformatted towards value. Managing director Steven Cain is expected to unveil the strategy next month.
A spokesperson for Coles told Inside Retail that a range of new convenience products will be available this week in stores where it has identified strong demand for fresh food on the go. These include nine fresh prepared breakfast lines, such as smashed avocado and egg and granola and yoghurt, at $4.50 each. Coles will also allocate more space to fresh convenience in stores where customer demand is high by the end of the calendar year.
“Our customers are increasingly seeking to reclaim their time, but with minimum compromise on freshness, quality, and flavour,” the spokesperson said.
The decision to invest in convenience was based on internal research that 33 per cent of customers don’t know at 5pm what they’ll be having for dinner that night, and around 50 per cent say they don’t have time to cook from scratch.
