Sustaining Health Promotion in Australian Supermarkets: Qualitative Perspectives From the Reach for the Stars Programme

Issue addressed Supermarkets influence dietary behaviours, but sustaining health-promoting interventions in these settings is challenging. This study explored factors shaping the long-term sustainability of Reach for the Stars, a multi-component intervention promoting products rated four or five health stars in independent supermarkets in the Latrobe Valley, regional Victoria, Australia. Methods Semi-structured interviews were conducted with health promotion staff, community members and supermarket owners and managers. Interviews were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis underpinned by a Big Q, constructionist approach, prioritising participants' experiences and perspectives rather than quantification.

What the research examined

Results Participants identified multiple factors influencing sustainability. Community engagement guided intervention design, ensuring materials met local needs, while trusting relationships between health promotion staff and retailers facilitated collaboration. Key challenges included limited ongoing funding, time constraints and inflexible organisational structures. Partnerships, adaptable resources and visible benefits to the community were highlighted as critical enablers.

What the findings mean

Participants also emphasised the importance of organisational support and leadership in sustaining programme practices over time. Conclusions Sustaining supermarket-based health promotion initiatives requires attention to relational, organisational and contextual factors beyond programme design. Active relationship-building, collaborative partnerships and responsiveness to local context supported programme viability and retailer engagement. SO WHAT?: These findings provide practical insights for public health practitioners seeking to implement or maintain supermarket health initiatives. Emphasising community connection, partnership development and organisational support can strengthen the longevity and effectiveness of interventions aimed at promoting healthier food choices in retail settings.

Study authors: Bennett R, Duff L, Mallia K, Allender S, Backman B, Blake M, Naughton S, Vargas C.. This report is based on the openly licensed abstract and source record and has been formatted for newsroom reading.