that’s one reason, the other is that the large display coolers where those items are often located are just a wall of a large walk-in where other stock not on display is stored. those are along a side of the building, and the back wall is nearest the loading docks (usually) so those items can be rolled right from the incoming trucks to the cooler easily.
I always figured milk and butter is at the back to minimize refrigeration loss from the front door opening
Milk and butter is placed in the back of the store to increase the chances you will buy something as you walk by. Every grocery store does this.
that’s one reason, the other is that the large display coolers where those items are often located are just a wall of a large walk-in where other stock not on display is stored. those are along a side of the building, and the back wall is nearest the loading docks (usually) so those items can be rolled right from the incoming trucks to the cooler easily.