365 by Whole Foods Market

365 by Whole Foods Market is a supermarket chain owned by Whole Foods Market, which itself is a subsidiary of Amazon.com. The 365 by Whole Foods Market chain was introduced to provide a more affordable shopping experience while still adhering to the quality standards for which Whole Foods Market is known. The name "365" is derived from the private label brand of Whole Foods Market, which emphasizes value and everyday affordability on quality products.

Concept and History

The concept behind 365 by Whole Foods Market was announced in 2015, with the first store opening in Los Angeles in 2016. The idea was to target a younger demographic, including millennials, with lower prices, a smaller store format, and a curated selection of products that still met Whole Foods' quality standards, including no artificial flavors, colors, sweeteners, preservatives, and hydrogenated fats. The stores also featured a simplified design and utilized technology to streamline operations and reduce costs.

Store Features

365 by Whole Foods Market stores were designed to be smaller and more efficient than traditional Whole Foods Market stores. They featured a selection of ready-to-eat meals, a limited assortment of grocery items, and a focus on the 365 Everyday Value brand. Additionally, these stores often included partnerships with local food vendors and cafes to provide a variety of dining options. Technology played a significant role in the customer experience, with features like digital price tags, self-checkout stations, and the use of the Whole Foods Market app for discounts and offers.

Expansion and Changes

After the initial launch, several more 365 by Whole Foods Market stores opened across the United States. However, in 2019, Whole Foods Market announced that it would discontinue the expansion of the 365 concept and focus on integrating the 365 product line into its mainline stores. This decision was part of a broader strategy following Amazon's acquisition of Whole Foods Market in 2017, aiming to streamline operations and reduce the complexity of having multiple store formats.

Legacy

Although the 365 by Whole Foods Market stores are no longer expanding, the 365 Everyday Value brand continues to be a significant part of Whole Foods Market's product offering. The brand is known for its affordability and quality, aligning with Whole Foods Market's commitment to high standards and sustainability. The 365 by Whole Foods Market stores contributed to the evolution of the grocery retail landscape by highlighting the demand for quality, affordable, and convenient food options.

See Also

• Whole Foods Market
• Amazon.com
• Supermarket
• Private label