October 2010 – It was not that long ago that the wellness category within the market was rather narrowly defined. Today, as we look at the changing needs of consumers and the integration and merging of categories throughout the marketplace it is becoming clear that the game has changed.
Wellness refers to the active, lifelong process of becoming aware of choices and making decisions to achieve optimal health and a more successful and balanced existence. According to the American Heritage dictionary, wellness is defined as “The condition of good physical and mental health, especially when maintained by proper diet, exercise, and habits.”
To understand and profitably address this new generation of shopper (and the demands placed on the retail supply chain), this column will address three essential facets: 1) consumer expectations; 2) disease state management; and 3) retail shopping experience. . . .
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