Commissary reset adds more ideas and benefits

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Phillip Butterfield
  • 35th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
Misawa Air Base's commissary's revamped floor plan brings more benefits and a fresher look to their customers July 20-22. 

This project, also known as the commissary reset, brought approximately 250 new items at a cost of $250,000 and wasn't a spur of the moment idea. This project that was put in motion when the Defense Commissary Agency, headquartered in Fort Lee., VA, identified Misawa's commissary as requiring a reset. 

"Two years ago DECA started identifying stores that require shelving or new resets," said Bob Preston, Misawa commissary grocery manager. "After we found out that we were selected, we submitted our plan for approval. DECA then drew up new floor plans and shelving considerations based on our needs." 

The layout selected is designed to improve the flow of the commissary and add a new aisle. 

With this additional aisle, the commissary had to reduce the width the store aisles some," said Mr. Preston. "However, the additional aisle will make it possible to add new items and more attractive displays with new end caps that give a water fall effect." 

But, it wasn't just the floor plan and aisles that received a makeover. The shelves were also redesigned for easier access. 

"One of the improvements that will be made to our shelving system is the top shelf will be placed a couple of inches lower to help our customers reach the upper shelves," said Greg McGruder, Misawa Commissary store director. 

The store was also able to add 44 feet of additional display space to the front of the store, he added. 

"When you renovate a store it does something to the psyche of the customer," said Mr. Preston. "Hopefully when people come in here they will like the changes that have been made and enjoy the new products offered." 

An undertaking of this magnitude to improve the lives of Misawa's residents isn't something that one person can do on their own. 

"I'm really proud of my team," said Mr. McGruder. "Mr. Preston honchoed this project from the beginning and Sharon Chai, Misawa commissary retail manager, was the glue that held everything together." 

The next project the commissary will be undertaking is the renovation of their frozen foods section to make it more customer friendly and upgrading the freezers.