STILLWATER, MN – 'Tis the season for new beginnings, or so says the weather—and apparently SuperValu's Cub® got the memo. With 46,000-square-feet to fill, the company announced in a recent press release that it found its newest home in Minneapolis at 46th and Hiawatha Avenue.
“This store brings a great new concept to the CUB portfolio, as it will be our first store embedded into a residential complex,” said Anne Dament, Executive Vice President of Retail, Marketing, and Private Brands, under which Cub resides. “We're evolving our look and feel while showcasing new shopping innovations for a better experience for our customers. We feel this new format CUB is a perfect fit for this neighborhood.”
The design for the new urban grocery store, which is set to open the spring of next year, is pulling out all the stops, anchoring a five-story, 148-unit apartment development by Excelsior-based Oppidan Investment Company.
Its curb appeal is looking to allure the unique Longfellow neighborhood customers as they make their daily trek from the light rail train or along Hiawatha Avenue. The company will also enjoy the access a future multi-use path connecting Minnehaha Falls to the Midtown Greenway will provide.
The store hopes to attract many different kinds of consumers, with a goal of catering to traditional and time-strapped shoppers. Its versatile and modern design will include a large deli area with Quick and Easy®, as well as made-to-order meal options, a popcorn shop similar to that of a theater, a farmers’ market-style produce area, a heightened floral gift section, and a pharmacy.
“We're very excited to see the culmination of over a year of planning and development,” said Vice President of Oppidan Investment Company Drew Johnson. “CUB has done a great job responding to and incorporating stakeholder feedback into their store design. The finished project will be a tremendous asset to the neighborhood.”
To invite more customers into the space to work or relax, Cub plans for different entrances and an indoor café-style area, curating its appeal to fit in with a variety of lifestyles. Further, the design includes a spacious outdoor seating area and bicycle parking. But, for those on-the-go customers, the store also boasts a walk-up window to purchase coffee, ice cream, and signature cookie sandwiches, which may be enjoyed on the spot—or on the road!
How will this new store design inspire other retailers to create spaces unique for their customers? AndNowUKnow will keep you updated with the latest industry trends.
