The launch of Big C Supercenter's mobile grocery trucks has caused a stir, with many voicing concerns over the adverse effect on the traditional mobile vehicles or food trucks run by small-scale operators.
Such concerns are valid. There will be some impact, though I think it will be more or less gradual, not so intense like that of the convenience stores that have largely wiped out the mom-and-pop grocery shops -- at least in the beginning stage. This means there is still time for the traditional operators to adapt.
The impact of the retail giant's mobile stores is limited because in the food truck trade, there exists a kind of bond between the operators and their customers who personally engage in healthy interaction. Such a bond will continue to be a deciding factor for this old trade, and most customers will remain loyal to the traditional type, not hastily switching to the superstore's new trucks right away.
