cult

In a crisis, the cult of Wegmans continues

Posted on May 20, 2020May 20, 2020 by Wegmaniacal

I started this blog a few months ago, before we’d ever heard of COVID-19, to explore the tremendous following Wegmans enjoys. Although there are still complaints about product shortages, waiting lines and mask requirements, the pandemic seems to have only strengthened people’s devotion. It might not be exaggeration to suggest that some of those who…

It’s unnatural

Posted on December 6, 2019March 1, 2020 by Wegmaniacal

Personal attachments to Wegmans are so fierce that the syndrome should qualify as a psychiatric condition. Some customers come to our store every day. One dedicated shopper rides her bike, regardless of weather. As a Wegmans employee, I probably sound like a lackey saying this. Believe me, the place isn’t perfect. (More on that in…

Upstate New Yorkers love their Wegmans, with a bond that newer customers in other parts of the East are discovering. As a customer and former employee, I share the obsession.

I launched Wegmaniacal in December 2019, to examine the cultlike following the company has developed since its founding in Rochester more than a century ago.

The site stagnated when I left Wegmans and returned to other endeavors. But with rising grocery prices, lowering environmental regulation, and pharmaceutical challenges, it’s time to resume writing here.

Much of what I have to say is positive. Nevertheless, the company is family owned and most of its operations are conducted in private. As a longtime journalist, I’ll also delve into topics Danny Wegman would prefer to keep behind closed doors.

— Laurie Bennett