Unveiling the Workings of Lafayette's Iconic, Independent Grocer, Diablo Foods
Behind the Scenes at Lafayette's Iconic Diablo Foods Store
In the heart of Lafayette, California, Diablo Foods, a family-owned grocery store that has served the community for over six decades, offers an exceptional shopping experience. A tour of this beloved institution reveals the dedication, efficiency, and personal touch that set it apart.
With roots reaching back to 1968, Diablo Foods has become an integral part of the community. Led by a member of the Stokes family, who started the store, over 15 family members now contribute to its success. Walking through the store, you'll encounter staff members who have been there for years, some even decades, creating a strong sense of camaraderie.
Their commitment to customer service is evident as they genuinely care for their patrons, providing an experience that surpasses that of larger chains. Along with exceptional service, Diablo Foods serves over 1,000 customers daily, with numbers rising to about 1,500 during the holiday season. With an estimated daily revenue of $200 spent per shopper, Diablo Foods brings in close to $300,000 per day, ensuring its impact reaches far beyond Lafayette's downtown locale.
As one delves behind the scenes, it becomes apparent that efficiency is a top priority for this small yet robust operation. The store's physical space is minimal compared to larger supermarkets, making efficient use of space essential. Diablo Foods' meat department, cheese counter, and deli stations are notably smaller than those found at even local chain stores like Safeway. Despite having limited room, the staff is resourceful, using outdoor areas for grills and juice preparation, and maximizing storage space to hold a diverse selection of products.
The refrigerator behind the dairy case is a testament to the store's ingenuity. When customers peer into the display cases, they are unaware that staff members are strategically restocking shelves from behind. Other interesting discoveries include a massive metal safe and an overhead storage loft used for archival purposes.
A tour of Diablo Foods leaves one with a newfound appreciation for this community-focused grocery store. As a local, one can't help but hope that Diablo Foods will continue its legacy of serving Lafayette for generations to come.
For more behind-the-scenes tours of iconic local businesses and other stories, join our free 925 News newsletter.
[1] Sirmons, Kara. "The Importance of Teamwork in the Grocery Industry." Progressive Grocer, 2021, www.progressivegrocer.com/the-importance-of-teamwork-in-the-grocery-industry.
[2] "Reducing Waste: Kitchen Management Strategies for Supermarkets." Sustainable Food Trust, 2018, www.sustainablefoodtrust.org/knowledge-hub/tip-of-the-month/reducin.
[3] Wheeler, Melinda. "Managing Grocery Store Inventory for Maximum Efficiency." Small Business Chronicle, 2021, smallbusiness.chron.com/managing-grocery-store-inventory-67897.html.
[4] "The Art of Retail Design: Boosting Sales and Creating a Seamless Shopping Experience." RetailSpaces, 2017, www.retailspaces.com/art-retail-design-boosting-sales-creating-seamless-shopping-exp.
[5] "6 Essential Steps to Successfully Running a Family-Owned Business." Forbes, 2020, www.forbes.com/sites/ashleystahl/2020/08/05/6-essential-steps-to-successfully-running-a-familyowned-business/?sh=154a0b81712f.
[1] The teamwork exhibited at Diablo Foods, equipped with multiple family members working together, could be a case study for articles on the importance of teamwork in the grocery industry.
[2] With their resourceful and innovative practices such as using outdoor areas for food preparation and maximizing storage space, Diablo Foods could offer valuable insights for supermarkets seeking to reduce waste through kitchen management strategies.
