Columbia, SC (WLTX) - It's going to be a great time to go grocery shopping here in the Capital City over the next few months - two stores, new to the Midlands, are opening their doors.
One of them is coming this week and News19 got a preview of the Whole Foods Market Monday.
Demand to take a look at the store is high. They offered tours to the general public with a great response. But, Whole Foods isn't the only game coming to Columbia. Trader Joe's is expected to open early next year.
For those who have never been to either, here's what you can expect.
"We're about the freshest, best products we can find - all-natural and organic, when possible," explains Whole Foods Store Manager Jeff Campbell.
It's part of the Whole Foods Market mission: the wide variety of natural food is something they're known for. This store will also feature more local products than any other store in the company, according to Campbell. "It was clear that Columbia was passionate about local and sustainable items and we wanted to reflect that. We want to tailor our stores to the community around us," he says.
It will also have an in-house coffee shop, kitchen and hot bar, where you can grab lunch or dinner.
And come early next year, they may have some competition when Trader Joe's opens a Forest Drive location. According to their website, they focus on unique and hard-to-find products and brands, but offer them for lower prices by buying them in bulk, dealing directly with suppliers and only stocking what sells. Another things they're known for is the Hawaiian theme each store has, including employees in flowered shirts.
Other stores in Cross Hill Market are opening soon as well. ULTA and M Boutique open this week and Nadeau, a furniture store is already open. Hand & Stone, a massage place, and Charleston Cooks open within the next couple of weeks. And Jamie Scott's Fitness, in addition to new restaurants Basil, Taziki and American Roadside Burger open in December and January.