Harris Teeter recently announced it will bring a store to Jacksonville after nearly two decades without a presence in Duval County. While construction has not yet begun, the grocer said it is “looking forward to opening a store in Jacksonville and introducing customers to what Harris Teeter is known for: high-quality ingredients, world-class customer service and an incredible shopping experience.” Here is what we know so far about the chain’s plans for its East Arlington site:
Why did Harris Teeter choose East Arlington for its new Jacksonville store?
Harris Teeter says multiple factors played into the decision to expand into this Northeast Florida location. According to the company, each new store site is chosen based on parcel size and suitability, site layout and store footprint potential, zoning permissions and land-use compatibility.
These environmental and community considerations, the company says, position the East Arlington corridor as an ideal place to introduce Harris Teeter’s brand of elevated, service-focused grocery shopping.
Current and future traffic patterns, transportation access and proximity to surrounding housing were all factors as well.
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How many employees will the new store hire, and what roles will be available?
The Jacksonville store is expected to hire 100 to 200 employees across a range of roles. These include store associates, baggers, pharmacy staff and fuel center associates.
Harris Teeter said details on hiring events and specific job openings will be announced closer to the store’s debut.
What amenities and flagship features will the Jacksonville store offer?
Harris Teeter describes the upcoming store as a convenience-driven, full-service shopping destination. Amenities planned for the Jacksonville location include Starbucks, grocery pick-up services, full-service wine and beer bar and a fuel center.
The company emphasized that customers will benefit from a seamless, all-in-one experience designed to make meal planning, entertaining and everyday grocery shopping easier.
Harris Teeter also said that its stores, known for exceptional meat and seafood departments, are staffed by experienced associates who provide expertise, recommendations and custom cuts.
These elements reflect Harris Teeter’s “ongoing commitment to convenience, quality and community,” the company said.
Will the store include offerings tailored specifically to Jacksonville shoppers?
While the grocer did not specify market-exclusive features, Harris Teeter emphasized that the Jacksonville store will deliver its signature combination of premium products, fresh foods, knowledgeable associates and convenient services.
How does Jacksonville fit into Harris Teeter’s Florida expansion?
Harris Teeter declined to comment on long-term strategy or competitive positioning “as that is considered proprietary information.”
The company confirmed only that its focus is squarely on developing and opening the Jacksonville store.
Shoppers at Harris Teeter enjoy appetizers Nov. 6 at the newly remodeled Beau Rivage location at 5920 Carolina Beach Road in Wilmington, N.C.
Will Kroger closing Florida facilities impact the Harris Teeter opening?
At this time, there are no indications that Kroger closing facilities will impact Harris Teeter’s plans to come to Jacksonville.
When will Harris Teeter open in Jacksonville?
While no specific dates have been announced, Harris Teeter said it is “excited to welcome customers to a grand opening event” and will share details as soon as they are finalized.
Harris Teeter reiterated its enthusiasm for entering Jacksonville and emphasized its commitment to delivering a comprehensive, convenient shopping experience.
Additional details, including hiring events, opening dates and community partnerships, are expected to be released in the coming months.
This article originally appeared on Florida Times-Union: Grocery store coming to Jacksonville will have fuel, Starbucks