At Giant Eagle, exceeding the needs and expectations of our customers is one of the most important ways we measure our success. Hearing directly from those we serve helps us identify ways to improve the shopping experience.

I am appreciative, therefore, to those who submitted letters to the Post-Gazette regarding the Sept. 29 article on our recent price reductions.

I was concerned when I read the two customer letters on Oct. 6 regarding the quality of our produce. We take great pride in offering a wide variety of what we believe is the finest, freshest and highest quality fruits and vegetables, and go to great lengths to ensure we deliver what we promise.

As to our overall pricing strategy, we price our offerings competitively within each local market. To support this, we launched our ongoing price reduction initiative in November 2004. So far we have reduced prices by hundreds of millions of dollars on more than 15,000 items among the most shopped items. Coupled with foodperks!, fuelperks!, coupons and great customer service, I believe we offer a more compelling overall value than you'll find anywhere else.

I personally ask that our customers continue to share their opinions on their Giant Eagle shopping experiences with our dedicated store Team Members or via our Customer Care call center (800-553-2324). By partnering with those we serve, we'll continue to refine the ways in which we are able to exceed the needs and expectations of our customers.

I read with interest "Ross Park Mall's Formula Being Tested," Oct. 23. It brought a smile to my face when I read what Nordstrom spokesman Colin Johnson said, "Our Ross Park store has the full breadth of what Nordstrom has to offer."

I don't even walk through the store. No need. The majority of product lines are cheap (with big price tags), and there is no petite department.

And to think, about 10 years ago, I was called and asked to participate in a phone survey: "If you could select retail stores for your mall, what store would you select?" I said Nordstrom. Maybe I'll get it right the next time.

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