Representatives of the Trancas Country Market shopping center made long-rumored plans official this week, with the announcement that grocery store Vintage Grocers will hold a grand opening celebration and ribbon-cutting celebration on March 5.
The grocery store will move into a renovated and expanded space formerly occupied by HOWS Market, which closed in 2011.
“Vintage Grocers is the realization of my dream to create a one-of-a-kind grocery store for a one-of-a-kind community,” Vintage Grocers market manager Eric Fuchser said in a statement.
Since the first announcement came that a new grocer would be moving into the long-vacant property at Trancas Canyon Road and the Pacific Coast Highway, community members have expressed concern that the market be community-centered and designed to meet the needs of local families.
The new market promises to supply everyday groceries for local shoppers, in addition to specialty options such as organic, all-natural, international, Kosher, GMO-free and gluten-free foods. The store also plans to feature environmentally friendly packaging and products throughout.
A representative for the grocery said the store also plans to become involved with the community by hiring from within the neighborhood.
“We are employing numerous people from the Malibu area, including some who worked at HOWS Market and at least five high school students already, and we are still hiring,” said Laura Mecoy, a spokesperson for Vintage Grocers. “A lot of people are coming from the Malibu area.”
The Grand Opening Celebration is scheduled to begin with a ribbon-cutting at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, March 5, and will include giveaways as well as live cooking and product demonstrations throughout the day. The celebration is set to last a week, with daily events through March 12.