Cosentino launches ultra-low-price grocery store in Kansas City

Cosentino’s Food Stores has introduced a new discount grocery store called Chop More! in Kansas City, Missouri, catering to shoppers looking for lower prices during a period of rising inflation. The location replaces a former Price Chopper store and operates under a cost-plus pricing model, applying only a 10% markup on wholesale costs. This strategy responds to increasing consumer interest in affordable grocery options outside traditional retail chains.

The store eliminates conventional discount methods such as coupons and loyalty programs, instead guaranteeing clear, upfront pricing. John Cosentino, the executive vice president of Cosentino’s, explained that the primary objective is simple: Customers will leave with genuine savings. Operating expenses will be reduced through merchandising strategies, including bulk bins and pallet displays for select items rather than fully stocked shelves.

Staffing levels have been adjusted to match the streamlined format, with approximately 60 employees hired—fewer than the roughly 100 who worked at the site when it was a Price Chopper. Unlike its predecessor, Chop More! will not provide in-store meat or bakery preparation, though packaged versions of these products will be available. The selection includes both national brands and private-label options, with a focus on Associated Wholesale Grocers’ budget-friendly lines, such as Best Choice and Always Save.

This pricing approach is not entirely new to the grocery industry. Food Smart Cost Plus Outlet, another AWG-affiliated store in Arkansas, has already implemented a similar model, emphasizing bulk pricing and limited product assortments. Dan Funk, CEO of AWG, characterized the strategy as a fresh way to offer quality products at competitive prices while delivering a unique shopping experience.

The move follows the expansion of discount grocers like Aldi and Lidl, which have pressured traditional retailers to adjust their strategies. Major competitors, including Walmart and dollar stores, have also enhanced their grocery sections to attract cost-conscious shoppers. For Cosentino’s, this initiative is part of a broader $40 million investment in store upgrades and new openings. The company currently operates 31 supermarkets under multiple banners, including Price Chopper, Cosentino’s Market, Apple Market, and Sun Fresh.

While the cost-plus model prioritizes affordability, its long-term viability may hinge on balancing savings with customer expectations. Discount formats often face challenges in maintaining product quality or variety, which could limit their appeal beyond the most budget-focused shoppers. The store began a soft opening on Thursday, with plans to fully launch on October 27.