LESSON 1: IDENTIFY YOUR CUSTOMER

The first thing you must do is identify what type of Deli customer you have. This will determine the type of products you need to offer. You must also identify your customers' preferences as well as your department's capabilities.  

Customer Types

• Organic
• Natural
• Upscale
• Traditional/Conventional
• Ethnic
• Food service
• Mixture of all
  
  

Customer Preferences

• Gluten-free
• Vegan
• Organic
• ABF
• Non-GMO
• National brands
• House brands/private label
• Local products
  
  

Department Capabilities

• Full production
• Limited production
• Fully finished/Thaw & Sell operation