Tuesday at 6 a.m., Roundy’s Supermarkets, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR), opened its doors in Chicago’s Bronzeville neighborhood, providing residents access to fresh, healthy food options along with signature Mariano’s experiences such as fresh squeezed juices, house-made Italian sausage, an award-winning produce department and freshly prepared meals for in-store or take-out dining.
Located at 3859 South Dr. Martin Luther King Drive, Mariano’s Bronzeville is the banner’s 39th location and brings approximately 400 new jobs to the area. The new store features artwork by Chicago-based, multi-disciplined artist, Hebru Brantley and exterior murals by Chicago-based artist and urban planner, Chris Devins. The murals highlight famous Bronzeville residents such as Louis Armstrong, Nat King Cole and Lorraine Hansberry. Mariano’s also partnered with organizations to provide job training and skills to individuals from the greater Bronzeville community as well as Chicago Housing Authority (CHA) residents.
“From day one this store has been about the neighborhood,” said Bob Mariano, Strategic Adviser to Kroger and Roundy’s. “Since we first identified this location in 2013, we have been working closely with local residents, leaders, architects, contractors and vendors to ensure this store reflects the values and flavors of the community. I am proud that when doors open tomorrow, we will bring high-quality, accessible food, complete with an extraordinary in-store experience.
The new store covers more than 74,000 square feet and brings renewed life to a key intersection that has been vacant for the last ten years. In addition to serving as an anchor for future development, Mariano’s Bronzeville represents the best in community partnership. Through working with Trinal Inc., a diversity and economic development consultant, Mariano’s has identified local purveyors to feature at the Bronzeville store including The Party Plate, D.A Gourmet Meat Company and Mike’s Seasoning.
Mayor Rahm Emanuel, Alderman Sophia King and Alderman Pat Dowell joined Bob Mariano and Mariano’s staff at a ribbon cutting ceremony at Mariano’s Bronzeville to celebrate the healthy food options, jobs and economic development that the new location brings to the neighborhood.
“Opening this Mariano’s means opening up incredible opportunities for residents in Bronzeville and across Chicago,” Mayor Emanuel said. “Mariano’s has shown time and time again they are committed to Chicago’s neighborhoods and families. This store is another important step in making sure every Chicagoan has access to fresh and good food options across the city.”
Store Highlights
Along with local offerings, Mariano’s Bronzeville will feature an array of offerings and enhancements fit for any lifestyle including:
- Vero featuring premium coffees with onsite, fresh-roasted coffee beans along with homemade gelato prepared with traditional Italian techniques.
- Oki Sushi has a menu of signature Maki rolls and sashimi prepared by on-site sushi chefs at the eat-in bar.
- Todds BBQ offering daily smoked brisket, ribs, and more, all with a variety of sauces to fit shoppers’ tastes.
- Oyster Bar featuring the freshest shucked oysters and specialty seafood dishes.
- Full-service Pharmacy with friendly and accessible pharmacists, immunization services, the Mariano’s Prescription Savings Club and the unique PharmaSmart Blood Pressure machine.
In celebration of the store opening, the Roundy’s Foundation will make a donation to the Matthew House, a nonprofit community organization that provides food, shelter, housing and supportive services to needy men, women and children who are homeless. A 17-year-old organization, the Matthew House is located in Bronzeville and is the only safe haven for homeless individuals on the South side of Chicago.
Mariano’s Bronzeville is open seven days a week from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. The pharmacy is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Additional details on other grand-opening week initiatives and events can be found on Mariano’s Facebook, Twitter and website at www.marianos.com.
