When Penn students return to campus this fall, Fresh Grocer will have gotten just a little bit fresher.
This summer, the grocery store intends to undergo a number of changes that will renovate and update the grocery store, located at 40th and Walnut streets.
Fresh Grocer manager Jeff Beaky said he is "very excited about the changes."
"I think the students will think it is pretty cool when everything is finished," he added.
In addition to the general renovations - such as new shelving and expansion of the prepared food section - Fresh Grocer will be introducing some entirely new features.
The most notable changes will be in the additions of full-service sections, such as a gourmet cheese counter and a full-service, sit-down sushi restaurant conveniently located inside of the store.
Fresh Grocer will also add self-checkout aisles, which are aimed at shortening regular checkout lines.
Additionally, a new coffee, smoothie and gelato bar is planned, and a new customer service center is also in the works.
Students said they were excited about the renovations to Fresh Grocer.
Wharton junior Brandon Crowfeather welcomes the idea of changes, saying, "Thank goodness. It's about time."
College junior David Yanez expressed similar sentiments.
"I really dislike the organization of the aisles," he said. "It can be really hard to get around."
Despite the elaborate plans, some of the logistical details are yet to be determined.
According to marketing director Carly Spross, it is unclear when the renovating will begin because Fresh Grocer is still taking bids for contractors.
Until a contractor is hired, the plans cannot be finalized.
Despite hopes to start construction in the first week of June, Spross emphasized that this timeline cannot be guaranteed.
She added that they would like the store to be remodeled by the time Penn students return to campus in the fall.
Until then, students can only anticipate the alterations.
"I hope the renovations make the store more efficient," Yanez said.
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