Shoppers want even more from supermarkets

Memory distributor Catalus commissions research that reveals the majority of consumers want more than just groceries from their local supermarket

Over two-thirds of consumers believe that supermarkets should expand their product lines to include more non food lines according to a survey carried out by memory specialist Catalus.

The firm commissioned independent research firm Pure Profile to carry out the research which questioned over 300 consumers aged between 16 and 39 across the UK. A total of 67 per cent believed supermarkets should stock more items such as electrical and IT goods to make them more of a one-stop shop for their customers.

Supermarket giant Tesco in particular has embraced the technology sector, pledging to triple its laptop and PC ranges (CRN, 5 June) and striking a deal with memory vendor Kingston Technology last year (CRN, 7 August). The behemoth also sells vast ranges of other electrical goods as well as clothes, homeware and even DIY.

Dave Flack, marketing director at Catalus said: “As supermarkets expand their ranges across an increasing number of non-food lines, consumers are being given the opportunity to do more and more of their shopping in the same place.

“I believe it is more than just a matter of convenience. Consumers are being offered quality and value that are not available anywhere else,” he added.