As a longtime Whole Foods shopper (since the ’90s) I was excited to learn of their expansion plans for the River Forest store. As one of the first Chicago-area stores, it is the smallest and most cramped.
But after seeing the proposed layout, I believe they have missed a huge opportunity to improve the shopping experience of their customers!
The main reason I shop at Whole Foods is their selection of organic produce. However, the produce selection is so poorly designed that two small carts cannot pass each other. Like an old-fashioned, covered-bridge scenario, only one person can pass at a time. I find it extremely unpleasant.
That is why I was so disappointed to learn that no improvements will be made to the produce section. This expansion will only add room for more high-profit prepared foods.
Since Whole Foods was purchased by Amazon, I have seen a decline in the quality of products and the morale of staff. Where possible, I have sought out other alternatives. It is only the selection of organic produce that has been difficult to replace. I will continue to seek out alternatives.
Kate Wester
River Forest