Publishers Weekly reports: “I’m always looking for children’s events,” says Jim Dahlen, senior buyer, publishing and audio/video electronics. “Our whole culture for the company is family and community.” That translates into 16 feet of children’s books in 140 out of 300 HEB grocery stores in Texas. “I don’t just want coloring books. I want young children reading in our store,” Dahlen adds, citing studies indicating that the number one reason for low children’s literacy in the state of Texas is the lack of reading material in the home. Based on his own research, he’s found that if HEB stocks inexpensive children’s books—mostly Golden Books and paperbacks—people will buy. “Literacy for me is important, because I love my company and the future for any company is having an educated work force.
Read more here. Let’s hope other grocery store chains follow in their footsteps.
