The Philadelphia Business Journal and The Times Herald reported this week on Acme’s recent makeover in King of Prussia, as the former market leader attempts to battle with Wegmans and other local food retailers for market share. According to the articles, Acme has lowered prices on 7,000 grocery items, eliminated its loyalty card and made some cosmetic tweaks.
According to Acme Markets President Jim Perkins, an industry rating system has Acme jumping eight points in recent weeks. The system measures service, cleanliness, speed at checkout, freshness and quality of products. Perkins said that a one or two point jump is considered a significant increase, so he was thrilled by the eight point improvement.
Perkins took over as Acme President last March, after parent-company Supervalu was sold to a group led by Cerberus Capital Management. Acme operates under the company division of New Albertsons, Inc.
Acme’s debut in King of Prussia came 50 years ago in 1963. That same year JC Penney and E.J. Korvette opened at The Plaza at King of Prussia. Acme relocated to its present location in the early 90’s as the mall expanded.