Going in Style

Finding a clean public restroom can sometimes be a problem. But did you ever stop to think how your stores' facilities would rate if a professional bathroom critic paid you a visit?

Progressive Grocer recently caught up with Gordon Javna, editor-in-chief of the Uncle John's Bathroom Reader series of books and Kimberly-Clark Professional's Roving Restroom Rater, to ask what supermarket retailers can do to improve the image of their lavatories.

Kimberly-Clark Professional established the Roving Restroom Rater Awards in 1999 to honor outstanding restrooms throughout the country.

Q: What do you look for when evaluating a restroom?

Javna: Typically, the Roving Restroom Rater award is given to properties that offer luxurious public restrooms, like high-end hotels and class A office buildings. And while "luxury" is something you don't typically find in a grocery store restroom, there are several things I look for in bestowing the award.

Q: Like what?

Javna: First, good lighting. As editor of a series of books designed to be read in the bathroom, I want to make sure you can see well enough to read! Second is maintenance. A restroom patron should feel like they are the only ones to have used this restroom. If you can tell that there has been a trail of people who have used the restroom before you, that restroom is not likely to receive an award. Finally, I look for luxurious appointments—something unusual or distinctive. This can be marble countertops, unusual fixtures, plants, artwork, candles or potpourri—something that stands out.

Q: Is it realistic to expect that supermarkets can emulate the high restroom standards established by luxury hotels?

Javna: While most people would never expect their local grocery store to have restrooms like the Ritz-Carlton, there are things that store managers can do to make the experience more pleasurable, such as paying strict attention to maintenance and cleanliness. Even seemingly small details can impact the shopper's overall restroom experience, and thus the overall shopping experience. For example, high-quality hand towels and soft bathroom tissue let patrons know they are truly cared for.