Trader Joe’s was the second most popular grocery store in 2022. These changes could make it #1

A few tweaks could propel Trader Joe’s to that top spot.

If you shop at Trader Joe’s often, you may find that doing so lowers your credit card tab when you shop at other stores. That’s because Trader Joe’s prides itself on its consistently low prices.

That’s not the only positive thing Trader Joe’s is known for. The supermarket chain has a reputation for excellent customer service. Its products are not only affordable but also delicious.

But surprisingly, in a recent YouGov poll of America’s most popular supermarkets, Trader Joe’s only came in second. It has actually been removed by Aldi, a haven for shoppers on a budget looking to stretch their wages.

To be clear, ranking #2 in a poll like this is not honorable. But if Trader Joe’s makes these key changes, it could help it reach No. 1 in the next round.

1. Keeping fan favorites on the shelves longer

Some of Trader Joe’s favorites, like pumpkin-flavored treats and holiday offerings, sell out in stores for a few weeks before disappearing for a good 12 months. Holding onto some of these products for a longer period of time may benefit Trader Joe’s. The company itself may see its revenue rise as consumers are more than willing to dip into their bank accounts to load up on their favorite purchases.

2. Return samples to all stores

Trader Joe’s has begun offering in-store samples at select locations. But the samples have not yet returned to many stores. Bringing them back universally could really please customers, especially those who miss those little cups of delicious Trader Joe’s coffee.

So, a little-known benefit of shopping at Trader Joe’s is that you can ask to try any product before you buy it. All you have to do is find a store associate, and they’ll open the item in question, let you try it on, and take it off the shelves at no charge. But it’s not the same as walking up to the counter, picking up a sample, and moving on.

3. Offer delivery

You may have noticed that Trader Joe’s doesn’t offer grocery delivery, and there’s a reason for that. Supermarket chains want customers to benefit from the excellent customer service that in-store shoppers experience. Customers who buy groceries for delivery may not get the full benefit of shopping at Trader Joe’s.

However, for some people, ordering food is more convenient than going to the store. And for those without a car, food delivery can be a lifeline. So if Trader Joe’s were to change its stance, it could gain new fans.

There are many good reasons to love Trader Joe’s. But it would be nice to see certain products hanging around longer, as well as in-store samples and the ability to order food for home delivery.