When you visit Trader Joe’s, you’ll find your favorites, like Peanut Butter Filled Pretzel Nuggets and Mandarin Orange Chicken, along with new surprises like Root Beer Float Bars and Chunky Garlic & Jalapeño Hot Sauce. But there’s also a hidden side to Trader Joe’s. On a recent podcast, hosts Matt Sloan and Tara Miller interviewed Trader Joe’s executives, CEO Bryan Palbaum and President Jon Basalone. They discussed rumors about the brand’s future, revealing what won’t be stocked on the shelves and exciting things to expect. Here’s a peek into their conversation!
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Eliminating Self-Checkout
Trader Joe’s rejects self-checkout, unlike other stores such as Whole Foods and Kroger. CEO Jon Basalone emphasized their commitment to their staff and debunked self-checkout rumors. At the same time, Bryan Palbaum stressed their focus on personal interactions and rejected the idea of self-checkout as laborious and unenjoyable.
No Drive-Through (With Or Without Free Samples)
Trader Joe’s is committed to not transforming its stores into fast-food drive-thrus or offering free samples via drive-throughs. Basalone and Palbaum dismissed the idea, with Palbaum humorously alluding to the store’s tight parking lots.
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No Aisles-Turned Waiting Areas
Trader Joe’s dismisses the notion of in-store restaurants, contrary to some larger grocery stores. Palbaum labeled this as “false,” and Miller stated that their products, customers, and staff negate the need for such additions. Customers can request product samples or enjoy Trader Joe’s well-known free samples for a snack or a taste of something new while shopping.
No Intentionally Flirtatious Staff
Despite claims on Reddit and TikTok about intentional employee flirting, Palbaum emphatically denies any such policy. He attributes the perception to the distinct atmosphere at Trader Joe’s, where genuine concern for customers’ well-being might be misconstrued. Basalone simplifies it as “That’s just genuine kindness in action.”