DETROIT, June 5, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Whole Foods Market opens a 21,506-square-foot store in Detroit today at John R. Street and Mack Avenue. Detroit Mayor Dave Bing and U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow will join company leaders in presenting the store to the community.
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"I'm so proud of how the community has come together to make our first Detroit location happen," said Larry Austin, store team leader. "This store celebrates our city, its history and its residents. Come on in, Detroit!"
Local schools and arts groups will present outdoor performances today as shoppers explore natural and organic options inside. The company's online magazine, Dark Rye, will also present videos.
The store is working with three local charities for opening day: the Coalition on Temporary Shelter (COTS), Sisters Acquiring Financial Equality (SAFE), and Gleaners Community Food Bank. Shoppers can vote to determine donations to each charity. One will earn 5 percent of all Michigan stores' profits on a future date, one will benefit from a "one dime at a time" program from stores across Michigan, and one will receive a $250 donation.
"The opening of the first Whole Foods Market in Detroit is a game changer," said Bing. "Not only does it offer central-city residents more choices and convenience for grocery shopping, it also proves that Detroit is an attractive destination for national retailers. I appreciate that Whole Foods Market involved the entire community in the planning of this development. This is a true community partnership, and we're proud to welcome Whole Foods Market to Detroit."
"We've worked toward this day for nearly five years, constantly inspired by the positive energy and growth in urban farming, food artisans and local producers in Detroit," said Walter Robb, co-CEO of Whole Foods Market. "We are so proud to be part of the mix."
Customers will find an array of fresh, healthy and affordable options including local products like Taste Love Cupcakes, Slow Jams, Great Lakes Coffee and Bhakati Chai Tea. Additional highlights include a community room, free store tours and healthy eating workshops, and regular community giving days. The new store features local and green design elements including using wood and salvaged brick from Reclaimed Detroit, tables made from old car and truck hoods, murals by local artists, and Motown records adorning register lights.
For more information, visit wholefoodsmarket.com/stores/detroit.
Contact: amanda.musilli@wholefoods.com - 313-258-4552
SOURCE Whole Foods Market