Ready to remodel? Consider these 6 trending store improvementsReady to remodel? Consider these 6 trending store improvements

Back to bulk. Old-school bulk has returned, Marks says, including nut butter machines. But it’s new, too, including oils, herbs, spices and even cleaning products.

Redone refrigerators. Seeking to serve up more frozen foods, grab-and-go options and local meat, “everyone is looking for more freezer space as older stores were tight there,” Marks says.

Prepared foods. Marks and Shindelar agree, delis are hotter than ever as natural retailers offer up in-store convenience with juice, sushi and food bars, prepared meals and even catering.

Expanded grocery. Grocery returns the biggest bang for the buck, and with the growth of raw, gluten free and organic, all categories are expanding options, Marks says. More space also allows room for local selections, specialty–natural mixes and hot new items.

Bigger bakeries. Baking’s getting big—more than 5,000-square-feet big, Marks says. Even adding small bakery cases for local and in–house treats sweetens this trend.

Adding fresh. New stores are getting stronger in peripheral departments all the time as they stock more fresh, Shindelar says.