Since its inception in 1916, Wegmans has arguably become the northeast’s most beloved grocery chain, and now it looks like the chain will be putting down roots in North Carolina. The family owned company, headquartered in New York, is planning
to open a new store on a 90-acre development across the street from Cary Towne Center. According to The News & Observer, Wegmans would be the centerpiece of a 90-acre development in the suburb of Cary. That plan boasts “200,000 to 300,000 square feet of retail and restaurant space; 300,000 to 600,000 square feet of office space; and 300 to 600 apartments.”
Wegmans spokesperson Jo Natale has confirmed, “We have signed a letter of intent and are working through lease negotiations with Columbia Development Group, with hopes of reaching a final lease agreement sometime during the first quarter of 2016.”
Columbia Development Group has submitted preliminary plans to the Town of Cary that include retail, restaurant and office space, plus some residential, structured parking and possibly a hotel. The company has contracted to buy the land from the state for $21.15 million.
Wegmans’ North Carolina fans are celebrating on social media…in fact, it has its own Facebook community page entitled “Bring Wegmans to the NC Triangle Area-Please.” Upon hearing the news, group members have left comments of cheer: “Woohoo! I’ve been writing them for years to open one here,” “Great news. I moved here from Rochester 2 1/2 years ago. Life will be complete now,” and “We regularly drive to VA to shop @ Wegmans. Can’t get here soon enough.”
In 2014, Consumer Reports named Wegmans “the best grocery store in America.”
What’s so special about the chain? First, the huge selection. The store has a variety of organic and hard-to-find items, and its international section is divided by region. Love craft beer? Wegmans’ selection is unsurpassed, with some stores even boasting a walk-in beer “locker.” Have a sweet tooth? The candy assortment is akin to stepping into Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory. Crave a fresh salad? Look no further: you’d be hard-pressed to find a fresher and bountiful display of veggies and fixings. The store’s prices are competitive for both brand-name
and generic items.
Busy moms and professionals will be delighted to learn that Wegmans is a true “one-stop shop” that has been described as a small city unto itself. In addition to food and beverages, the store offers a cafe, pharmacy, dry cleaner, bookstore-style newsstand, custom florist (including delivery services), and even free child care while you shop!
Employees are known for their friendly and prompt customer service. In 2015, Wegmans ranked number 7 on FORTUNE Magazine’s annual “100 Best Companies to Work For,” marking its 18th consecutive year on the prestigious list. It’s one of the few stores to offer employees health care and retirement plans, as well as a college tuition reimbursement plan.
Keep up-to-date on the latest commercial and residential real estate developments by contacting Broker Jodi Bakst or Paul Barrett: 919.928.5131, [email protected], or [email protected]. Visit them online at www.realestateexperts.net.