OREGON, Ohio — Bustling shopping carts suggest a busy day at the store, but Oregon Meijer General Manager John Kowalski said Friday it's just the calm before the Super Bowl storm.
"We'll be pretty busy all through the night tomorrow, but especially Sunday," Kowalski said. "Sunday is gonna be your busy time. Around noon right after church until Super Bowl time, people are going to be buying without a doubt."
Massive spreads of wings, chips, dips, sodas and beers are a normal feature at parties for the annual gridiron showdown. For some, the food is a tradition in itself.
"It's all about the food," Kowalksi said. "It's all about what you're going to make for that party, folks getting together."
As expected, a list of party essentials are already flying off the shelves and will likely need to be restocked all weekend, he said.
Beer and wine are common purchases for those who need some liquid courage to stave off nervous anticipation as every down brings one team closer to the trophy -- or for those who are still mourning their beloved team's performance that kept them out of the big game.
The meat department gets slammed by customers looking to buy bratwurst, shrimp and more, Kowalski said.
To keep up with the demand, Meijer staff have to be diligent in keeping shelves stocked. But, Kowalski said this is far from the first time his staff has had to step up to meet a challenge.
"Here in retail, especially in the grocery world, it's been busy the last three years" especially due to the COVID-19 pandemic," Kowalski said. "So they're not unused to this."
Shoppers aren't exempt from world events either, with inflation still affecting some prices.
According to Wells Fargo, the prices of beer, wine and spirits are all up from 2022.
But, chicken wings are down 22% from January, steak is down one dollar and avocados are down 20% compared to last year.
According to the National Retail Federation, Americans will spend over $16.5 billion on food and accessories in anticipation of the big game.
And with weather predicted to be mild through the weekend, Kowalski said Super Bowl parties on Sunday could be ones for the books.
So why not go big? Dust off the grill, give those burgers and hot dogs some flavorful char and enjoy pleasant temperatures, he said.
Kowalski said Saturday morning is an opportune time for those looking to avoid large crowds while shopping.