Giant Opens First Urban Concept Store

PHILADELPHIA – Giant Food Stores has opened its first Giant Heirloom Market concept in downtown Philadelphia, the Philadelphia Inquirer reports. The 9,500-square-foot urban format aims to meet the needs of city workers and residents.

“We can’t meet our full potential without this new format,” said Nicholas Bertram, president of Giant Foods. “I was surprised, whenever we did research, how much customers wanted to be able to prepare their own food. That’s where I saw the opportunity. People want shortcuts and hacks. They are inspired by the chefs in Philly and want to re-create those dishes, and they don’t always have access to the best ingredients, and we’re going to solve that for them.”

The concept is one being replicated by grocers and discount stores like Target and Walmart as more urban areas become mixed-use with shopping and housing within the same building. Giant’s Heirloom format is smaller than its typical location and has an onsite produce chef, on-tap kombucha, beer and wine, plus customizable olive oil and vinegars. The store also offers online ordering via store iPads for next-day delivery for items not stocked. Mobile and self-checkout options are also available.

“We’re proud to serve our ... neighbors during their culinary quests by offering fresh produce, meat and seafood alongside the Philly products they know and love all in a store designed for them,” said Angel Cordero, the Heirloom store manager. “We’re confident that by providing an authentic shopping experience, our passion for locally sourced products and our customers will shine bright at GIANT Heirloom Market.”