Toronto-based Longo Brothers Fruit Market — known as Longo's — is debuting its latest pilot, a meal-based shopping program developed in strategic response to the changing needs and behaviors of today's shopper.

"As the grocery store model continues to evolve, we must focus on developing programs that are both customer-centric and designed for the future of retail," says Rosanne Longo, consumer spokesperson. "Through this program, we hope to create greater value for our customers that will keep them returning to their favorite Longo's location time and time again." 

Consumers can utilize a kiosk area where fresh ingredients will be merchandised according to specific meals. The kiosk will provide customers with one central location inside there store where they can hand-select their produce, meats, starches and garnishes to create a specific meal or recipe.

Meal sizing will be adjustable to ensure shoppers have enough to feed a single person or a party of 10. Recipes and step-by-step cooking guides will also be available instore and online.

"Similar to the many Longo's initiatives that are currently underway, this program seeks to prepare us for the future of retail. As we carefully examine consumer trends, we know that customers are certainly seeking convenience, but we firmly believe that they also want a human-centred experience where they can browse, see, feel and compare ingredients before purchasing," says Longo. 

The pilot project launched this week in Toronto. The company says it plans to expand the model to each of its 33 stores by early 2020.