Southeastern Grocers Launches Its Largest-ever PL Revamp

Southeastern Grocers (SEG), parent company of Bi-Lo, Fresco y Más, Harveys and Winn-Dixie stores, has launched what it dubs its largest-ever transformation of private label products.

The revamp, to span approximately 3,000 items across all categories at each banner-specific store throughout 2017, involved the testing of 2,330-plus own-brand products, which led to improved quality reformulations on more than 2,260 products. Enhancements have allowed for more than 2,280 products with no artificial colors, 2,160-plus with no artificial flavors, 2,650-plus with no MSG, more than 2,640 with no trans fat, and more than 2,240 with no high-fructose corn syrup.

The initiative also includes the introduction of three new brands, representing a three-tier store-brand program: SE Grocers Essentials, everyday value products for those seeking reliable, budget-friendly household basics; SE Grocers, products developed with quality as good as or better than that of established national brands, but at lower prices; and Prestige, a premium-tier brand offering a selection of specialty and indulgent products at affordable prices. Prestige ice cream already has been awarded “Best French Vanilla Ice Cream” in the country at the 2016 World Dairy Expo, in Madison, Wis.

SEG has put its focus on improving the overall quality of the own-brand products offered across the four grocery banners in the Southeast, including the development of a test kitchen and sensory-lab tasting facility at its Jacksonville, Fla., headquarters. The SEG sensory lab has conducted both product development and consumer taste-testing trials throughout the year to capture valuable insights on the products.

Some of the new and improved products arriving this month are SE Grocers Popcorn, in Cheddar, White Cheddar, Salt & Pepper, and Sea Salt varieties; Prestige Popcorn, in Caramel and Chicago Mix varieties; SE Grocers Potato Chips in 21 varieties that include traditional Regular and Sea Salt, as well as unique flavors such as Jamaican Jerk, Sriracha Wavy, Dill Pickle and Maui Onion; and 107 SE Grocers Essentials goods.

Southeastern Grocers LLC employs nearly 60,000 associates in grocery stores, liquor stores and in-store pharmacies throughout Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina and South Carolina.