Kroger

In preparation for the upcoming snow storm and Christmas I stopped in because I was in the area for work. On the news all morning they were showing stores with empty shelves so I wasn't expecting much. However, I was pleasantly surprised. The aisles were stocked and the employees were continuing to stock as I shopped. I found everything I needed and some extras. The biggest shocker was when I was ready to check out and most of the lanes were open. When the lines got a little too long they quickly opened more registers. I told everyone at my meeting to head to this location if they needed to pick up items before the storm.

Bring a flashlight!
The lights have been taken out in all of the aisles except Refrigerated/Frozen. Yes - no lights above the shelves.
"It's to make more room for stock on the top shelves!" I was told.
"So there won't be any replacement lights coming?", I replied.
"Nope!" was the eloquent retort.
What Inventory Efficiency Genius came up with this idea?
Add to this:
A whole bank of self-checks that are never open.
A "Customer Service" desk that is rarely staffed.
Surly deli counter staff.

Not exactly customer-friendly.

I walked into this location for the last time in January 2023. Why? I'll tell you why... I went to the deli counter at noon on a Tuesday. Older woman working in the back, and she saw me at counter. She greets me and asks, "What can I help you with?". I said I need some lunchmeat. She replies, "The deli is closed.". Nothing else - at noon on a Tuesday - and the display case is full. I asked, "Where do I get lunchmeat?". She angrily starts pointing around the store, raising her voice: "OVER THERE! OVER THERE! OVER THERE!". I walked away and sought out the store manager. Explained exactly what happened and manager had a look on her face of "Oh no, not again.". I told her I would drive one mile up the road to the Kroger at Haggerty and Six Mile and would never set foot in the Haggerty and Five Mile location again. Crusty and rude female deli worker.

There are many aspects of Kroger that I enjoy. They stock well, have a variety of items and their stores are organized in a logical manner. The produce is ok, not great, but decent for a grocery store. I like adding Kroger points to achieve fuel discounts as well. There is some inconsistencies what each store carries, but that is probably based on customer demographics and preferences. It is usually best to buy meat from higher level specialty stores, but I have never had any issues with Kroger meats.

I do notice a trend at the two Kroger locations that I shop at the most, decreased service, less customer focus and disregard for the needs of the customer in a humanistic way, meaning the loss of friendliness and kindness. The delis are is the number one issue at every Kroger. I like the convenience of the pre-sliced deli meats. I do take advantage of that option, but the meat is often sliced very thick and I prefer thin or shaved meats. So, that is something that you have to request at the deli counter. At both Kroger stores, it is such a difficult task to have the personnel at the deli counter, first look up, acknowledge you and then, painstakingly cut the meat. This occurs while either appearing disgusted by the request and/or chatting with other deli personnel and taking an exorbitantly long time to complete the order. It often comes to mind that if the customer has more than one request and another deli personnel is free, and there are no other customers, why not pitch in and help to serve the customer?

The other issue I have experienced many times, there are little to no baggers. I put my items on the conveyor and meet them all again to bag them. I am ok with helping and I do so frequently, but I would enjoy a break from taking on yet another job. Some cashiers are ok and personable, others are not. Usually, they do not even say a thank you for bagging.

All of this combined, and the entire experience at Kroger is not up to par. This location is especially sad because it was the old Hillers that Kroger bought out. I do recall the enjoyment of shopping at the old store. Too bad they sold out to a grocery giant and, with that, old-fashioned, good service and hometown feel went with it. But, as stated earlier, the Kroger in Novi is also declining rapidly with little consideration for its customers.

Be warned, at this time store is a mess and remodeling. Black arrows on floor showing where new displays will be. No shopping carts were available, so I didn't buy nearly as much as I would have with a cart, only what I could comfortably carry. They moved the snack/chip aisle and when I found it, they had actually put it in the middle of aisle 3. So yes, the aisle was now as wide as my body. Some old lady parked her cart and was going through her coupons blocking everyone, so no way to access that aisle, forget those purchases. Produce section is half of what it was and mostly covered up. I won't be back until store products are available and accessible, however many months that will be.

One thing I dread is grocery shopping. However, I don't mind grocery shopping here. This location does not have clicklist yet, I hope they get it soon, though. I do love this location. It's super easy to get in and out of. It's on the corner of 5 and Haggerty. This Kroger's produce is always fresh. It is a smaller Kroger, but I find what I need. The shelves are always stocked. When I am done shopping, I want to get out. This place always has a good amount of checkout lines open. The checkout lines have shrunk recently since they took some out because of U Scan, but I never wait too long in line.

Love this store!! The bakery is awesome and it's the only Kroger around that has the fresh baked muffins every day. People that work here are always happy to help you. Jane at the customer service desk is very helpful and fast. Great bargains on the clearance fruit and veggies.
I only wish that they didn't put in so many u-scans. All shoppers prefer the old way of checking out - especially if you have a whole cart full of stuff.

This Kroger has done the best job with cleanliness and social distancing. I used to go the the larger Kroger because it had a better selection, but since covid this is my store. Clean, organized and I really feel protected.