Omni Talk Retail Justin Weinstein On The Rationale Behind Giant Eagle's $100M "Because It Matters" Investment
Sep 30, 2025
Justin Weinstein, EVP and Chief Merchandising and Marketing Officer at Giant Eagle, shares insights from his seven-plus years shaping the company’s strategy. He reveals the rationale behind their substantial $100M investment aimed at enhancing value, quality, and store environments. The conversation touches on how health trends like GLP-1 medications are influencing grocery merchandising and protein demand. Justin also discusses their innovative LEAP retail media network, emphasizing a customer-focused approach in a competitive market.
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Giant Eagle's Roots And Justin's Journey
- Giant Eagle is a 95-year-old, family-owned regional food and drug retailer based in Pittsburgh with stores across several states.
- Justin Weinstein has been at Giant Eagle for over seven years and led digital, loyalty, personalization, and customer experience before heading merchandising and marketing.
Because It Matters: $100M Brand Reinvestment
- Giant Eagle launched a new brand positioning called "Because It Matters" tied to a $100M reinvestment.
- The program focuses on everyday value, quality/service, and modern stores to reinforce why grocery retail matters in customers' lives.
Reinvest In Value, Service, And Skills
- Invest across price, quality/service, and store environment to meet customer needs during tight economic times.
- Train and equip teams (butchers, bakers, cake decorators, cheesemongers) to deliver memorable fresh and celebratory moments.