Times are tough and consumers, even those who shop at Whole Foods, are looking for ways to save money on their grocery bills. Last week, the chain dubbed "Whole Paycheck" announced it was launching "The Real Deal" program to offer consumers discounts, money-saving coupons and shopping tips on the natural and organic products sold in its stores.
Beginning on July 17, Whole Foods will offer a 28-page value guide with budget priced meal plans and recipes, along with deals on the chain's 365 Everyday Value private label products. Whole Foods has also partnered with Mambo Sprouts, a coupon company specializing in natural products, to offer discounts on branded items in its stores.
"Each quarterly issue of 'The Real Deal' value guide includes money-saving tips, budget recipes -- each with a cost per serving -- and a variety of menu plans for the week," said Mara Fleishman, special projects coordinator for national marketing at Whole Foods. "This inaugural issue also includes timely information on how to milk your back-to-school dollar for all it's worth and meat-buying tips to help shoppers grill out without getting burned."
Shoppers at Whole Foods will be able to find discounted products with "Real Steal" signs posted throughout the store.
Discussion Questions: What does the development of "The Real Deal" program say about how Whole Foods is faring in the current economic and competitive environment? Will the program do anything to alter the perception of the company's "Whole Paycheck" image?