How Trader Joe's Gained A Cult Following

As a college student, Trader Joe’s became my favorite weekly outing because I could buy healthy snacks and ingredients for one-person dinners. Even with a small budget and minimal cooking skills, Trader Joe’s had everything I needed to fuel my body without sacrificing food quality. Now, as a teacher, I still head to Trader Joe’s for my groceries because the experience simply brings me more joy than a trip to another large chain.

Trader Joe’s is a wonderland of organic foods, healthy snacks, cleaning products, dog treats, and even body care items that rival the scent and quality of Sol de Janeiro. But the grocery store’s cult following was carefully crafted through an unorthodox operations model that has proven successful for over 60 years. 

The Trader Joe's Experience

The brand focuses on creating community and loyalty with its customers, allowing for shared experiences, friendly exchanges at the checkout, and trademark recognition that creates a sense of nostalgia within its stores. Take the iconic Trader Joe’s paper bag (which costs the consumer 10 cents), for example; this simple and necessary item has now expanded to include a large variety of reusable totes with the same nostalgic attachment. 

In addition to their aesthetic social media presence, their employees are also strategically placed to ensure customer interaction and overflowing shopping carts. What other grocery stores regularly stock their shelves during peak shopping hours? Their employees have even gone as far as to be labeled “flirty” with customers (with many asking whether they're trained on the job to do so), as their enthusiasm for the job reflects a healthy, fun work environment. 

They have also gone out of their way to make shopping fun for everyone, with healthy versions of some of your favorite name-brand items marketed with their quirky names and colorful packaging! You can find avocados at any grocery store, but the Trader Joe’s Teeny Tiny Avocados are worth the trip! Tired of Swedish Fish? Try the colorful Scandinavian Swimmers instead! 

Essentially, the store has removed competition from the shelves, as it only stocks its own brand of items, so the variety of products is catered directly toward your wants and needs, rather than an expensive ad campaign. Their shelves are less overwhelming than your average grocery store, and they only stock a variety that is necessary, with a range of sauces and meals that work with various dietary restrictions or goals. What’s a girl to love more than a stress-free and delicious shopping experience? 

Trader Joe’s also has a rotating base of seasonal items that inspire excitement (and even frenzy!) among their loyal customer base. Every November, the Peppermint Jo-Jo Sandwich Cookies hit the shelves, along with festive drinks, snacks, body care, and even decorations. Valentine’s Day brings heart-shaped macaroons, dark chocolate heart cookies, and Italian artisan heart-shaped pasta – which is perfect for a Galentine’s gathering or an intimate meal with your man (swoon!). The summer season adds new flavors of refreshing beverages and beach-themed treats, and if you love PSLs, September is filled with all the fall flavors you crave! 

And yes, they also sell scented candles in cute little tins, a wide selection of cards for every occasion, and even gift sets with lip masks and hair oils. Is there anything you can’t find in Trader Joe’s? 

Trader Joe’s also hits us right where it counts – the floral department. The flower selection is fantastic year round, but the spring months are often accompanied by a colorful range of fresh tulips and other floral delights. With reasonably priced florals and a wide range of blooms to choose from, you can essentially create your own bouquets for under $20, which is the perfect way to treat yourself during your weekly errands. Unsure of your floral arrangement skills? Check out @a_trader_joes_florist for regular inspo, shopping guides, and demonstrations for the perfect arrangements at home! 

Why Women Love Trader Joe’s

So, why are women so obsessed with their local grocery store? Well, it's all about the experience. Trader Joe’s has everything we could possibly look for in a grocery store: good prices, great variety, healthy options, and a fun shopping experience to tie it all together. And because everything you need is in one place, it is so easy to meal prep for just yourself or your entire family! 

And while the concept of a “Trader Joe’s Girl” might be considered a cringey social media stunt, the reality is that Trader Joe’s is a special place where grocery shopping becomes a source of excitement, rather than a mundane task. Women are naturally inclined to create and enjoy the food space, so it only makes sense that a store catered to that joyful experience would have a female fan base! 

15 Trader Joe’s Items the Evie Writers Are Obsessed With 

If you aren’t obsessed with Trader Joe’s just yet, we’d recommend paying your local store a visit! Here are 15 must-have items to add to your grocery list this week. 

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