"Food City's North Alabama Expansion: A Game Changer for Athens"

Location and Investment

According to the official announcement from the city, the new Food City store will be located at Elm and Lucas Ferry Street. This strategic placement is expected to bring convenience to the local community. The $19.5 million investment in this store is a testament to Food City's commitment to the region. It will not only create about 200 job opportunities but also contribute to the local economy.

With an estimated annual sales of $23 million, this store is poised to become a significant contributor to Athens' commercial landscape. The city council's approval of a $2.4 million incentive shows their support for this project and its potential to drive growth.

Meeting a Local Need

Mayor Ronnie Marks highlighted the importance of this project in addressing a need in the west Athens area. The population and retail growth has been concentrated on the east side along major thoroughfares. By bringing Food City to this sector, the city aims to balance development and provide more options for residents.

As more than 40 percent of the city budget comes from sales tax, growing the sales tax base is a top priority. This project is seen as a crucial step in achieving that goal, enabling the city to invest in essential services like hiring more responders, purchasing garbage trucks, and undertaking paving projects.

Expansion Plans in Huntsville

Food City is not just focusing on Athens. They are in the midst of an expansion in the area and plan to build six stores in Huntsville. This indicates their confidence in the region and their intention to serve a wider customer base.

With a presence in five states and 150 retail outlets across Kentucky, Virginia, Tennessee, Georgia, and Alabama, Food City brings a wealth of experience and expertise. Their expansion plans are a sign of their continued growth and success.