CARLISLE, PA - In a move to cement itself as a top-tier retailer, GIANT Food Stores just announced its plans for further expansion into the Philadelphia market, with the opening of three new GIANT Heirloom Market stores, in addition to its most recent store opening in the Graduate Hospital neighborhood. As part of its strategic growth plan, the stores will be opening in the Philadelphia neighborhoods of University City, Northern Liberties, and Queen Village, and will feature a format and assortment of products specially curated for each unique neighborhood.

"GIANT Heirloom Market is the next chapter in our innovative growth story. The response to our first location in Graduate Hospital has exceeded our expectations and we couldn't be more excited about the future of our GIANT Heirloom Market brand," said Nicholas Bertram, President. "Equally as important, today's news also supports GIANT's commitment to the city of Philadelphia and the people who call it home. We can't wait to introduce our GIANT Heirloom Market concept to more of the city's unique and treasured neighborhoods."

All three stores are set to open in 2019 and will create approximately 150 new full- and part-time positions, according to the press release. The three new GIANT Heirloom Market locations are part of an effort to invest in the city’s urban core, as up till now, GIANT’s presence has largely been in the suburbs of the city. The expansion plan was revealed at the company’s 95th anniversary in October of 2018, and the three new stores will bring the total to five locations within the city limits.

"We are always grateful when companies decide to open or expand in Philadelphia, and that is especially true when the business helps provide access to fresh foods for our residents," said Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney. "GIANT has become an integral part of the Philadelphia region, and we're looking forward to the opening of these three new stores across numerous neighborhoods over the next year."

All three locations will feature a range of products and services that are sure to delight shoppers. The stores will offer a wide selection of high-quality, fresh, local, and seasonal foods, everyday essentials, GIANT’s organic brand Nature's Promise®, and a range of convenient grab-and-go meals. The stores will also feature an onsite Produce Chef, who is available to cut fresh fruit and vegetables on demand at a sampling station, to encourage customers to explore new flavors and varieties. As if that wasn’t enough, the stores will have a wide array of plant-based foods, fresh made sushi, local artisanal breads, a do-it-yourself olive oil and vinegar blending station, kombucha on tap, and a curated selection of craft, imported, and domestic beers. Locals will also be treated to offerings from Philadelphia-area food purveyors.

"We're excited to be able to collaborate with our new urban communities to create a store tailored to their specific needs, preferences, and neighborhood flavor," said Bertram. "Finding ways to better serve our neighbors drives everything we do at GIANT."

Will this strategic growth plan pay off for GIANT? Keep reading AndNowUKnow for updates.

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