Whole Foods announced on a Web site dedicated to its upcoming 365 by Whole Foods Market stores that it’s seeking “friends” to set up shop in the three locations opening this year, with potential partner businesses including everything from a tattoo parlor to a record shop.
Apparently, Whole Foods is looking to bring in merchandise from likeminded retailers as part of an effort to attract more budget-conscious young shoppers, “Friends of 365 may be any type of business — from food and drinks to fashion, body care products, services, and more,” the Web site says. “The more variety, the merrier!”
One would think outdoor wares would resonate with Whole Food shoppers.
The 365 by Whole Foods Market chain, announced last year, is based on Whole Foods’ house brand, 365 Everyday Value, and will aim to “keep standards high and prices affordable.”
The first 365 by Whole Foods stores are scheduled to in Los Angeles, Calif., in May; Lake Oswego, Ore., in July; and Bellevue, Wash., in August. Additional locations are planned for California, Florida, Illinois, Ohio and Texas, with at least 10 of the 365 by Whole Foods Markets stores slated to open through 2017.
