GREENSBORO, NC - A new Newsweek and Statista survey has proven the Cheers theme song to be true—sometimes you do want to go where everybody knows your name. This comes in reference to the survey conducted by the news site to name the Best Customer Service award winners for 2021. After an independent survey of 25,000 U.S. customers, The Fresh Market Inc. has been recognized along with Publix, Wegmans, Trader Joe’s, Costco, and many more.

"While The Fresh Market has always put the needs of our guests first, this recognition is especially meaningful amid the precautionary measures grocery stores have had to put in place over the past seven months like face coverings, plexiglass shields, and social distancing that can impede interacting with our guests," said Jason Potter, President and CEO of The Fresh Market. "During these stressful times, it is more important than ever to offer impeccable guest service and hospitality."

Respondents of the survey were asked to rate retailers across different categories that include: friendliness of communication, professional competence, range of services, customer focus, and accessibility.

"We are honored to be recognized with this award by our customers," added Publix Director of Communications Maria Brous in a separate press release. "Publix associates work hard to treat our customers like royalty, and we’re grateful to be acknowledged for customer service excellence in our industry."

According to a press release, the retailers were ranked in the following order: Publix was ranked first, Wegmans second, Trader Joe’s came in third, Sprouts Farmers Market fourth, and The Fresh Market ranking fifth, showing an all-star lineup of grocery retailers.

Costco, Meijer, and Sam's Club ranked first though third in the superstores and warehouse club stores category.

For The Fresh Market, guest insight scores have increased significantly since January, especially in areas of team member recognition, friendliness, exceptional service, and overall satification.

Different than many other large grocery stores, The Fresh Market boasts a smaller atmosphere with soft lighting, calming music, and friendly associates that often know their regular customers by name.

"The little touches make a big difference, such as greeting our guests with a smile, walking them to an item they are looking for versus pointing, making a recommendation to complement their meal, and overall treating them the same as you would for any guest invited into your home," continued Potter.

To read the full list of winners and see how they ranked in comparison, click here.

Congratulations are in order to all of those recognized on this list! We look forward to seeing how retailers will continue to wow shoppers with fantastic in-store experiences.

The Fresh Market Publix Wegmans Costco Trader Joe's Meijer Sam's Club