Up until very recently, I had a steadfast rule that I wouldn't step into a supermarket during weekends. Parking rage, shopping cart down narrow aisle rage, crappy produce rage. It wasn't worth it for me. Well, all of that changed when a second Whole Foods (yes, second) opened up in my town. I still drive into the parking lot bearing decades of supermarket "baggage", but I consistently leave with a smile on my face and a lot less money in my pocket. Whole Foods has made the effort to gratify even the most difficult supermarket customer...me.

Take, for example, my most recent visit. I went in to buy a pork chop for dinner and a beer or two to accompany my next homebrewing adventure. I started in the beer section where I happened to run into the store's beer buyer (who I see every 3rd or 4th visit there). I asked for a couple of recommendations and ended up in a 15 minute conversation. This individual is deeply knowledgeable, eloquent, down-to-earth, and friendly. I ended up with $50+ worth of beer (see post photo). Employing passionate people who have expertise in your products? Genius.

Then I made my way over to the meat counter where a butcher with an infectious smile chatted me up. All of the nearby shoppers had smiles on their faces too, and we found ourselves in a conversation about local gossip. Stress free and fun.

Whole Foods knows their target market inside and out. They've hired skilled and enthusiastic employees to interact with their customers and have completely removed any anxiety from the shopping experience. It's a playbook that we should all look to emulate...a great product that results in happy and loyal customers.