Publications
Publications
- November 1998
- HBS Case Collection
Wegmans Food Markets: Diabetes Counseling
By: Ray A. Goldberg, David E. Bell and Ann Leamon
Abstract
Danny Wegman, president of Wegmans Food Markets, is trying to decide how to evaluate the success of a nutrition-counseling program for diabetics, and whether and how to expand the program beyond the two stores currently involved. Wegmans, with 57 stores and $2.3 billion in revenues, implemented the program in conjunction with a local hospital and a disease-management company. Initially intended to stem the erosion of pharmacy margins due to managed care plans, the program filled a genuine social need--diabetes can be inexpensively controlled through diet if caught early. In addition to discussing how the program has been established, the case presents financials for the supermarket industry and Wegmans' competitors. The new role of supermarkets in addressing disease, health, and preventive medical needs is also presented.
Keywords
Performance Evaluation; Expansion; Programs; Human Needs; Financial Management; Health Care and Treatment; Nutrition; Consumer Behavior; Pharmaceutical Industry; Food and Beverage Industry
Citation
Goldberg, Ray A., David E. Bell, and Ann Leamon. "Wegmans Food Markets: Diabetes Counseling." Harvard Business School Case 599-057, November 1998.