The new Bethlehem Kroger Marketplace celebrated its grand opening Wednesday, Dec. 10, at 995 Loganville Highway, with a community event marking the retailer’s arrival just ahead of the Christmas holiday season.
The store officially opened for business at 8 a.m. following a ribbon-cutting ceremony that drew community members, elected officials, school representatives and local partners. The celebration featured performances by the Apalachee High School marching band and chorus, participation from JROTC cadets and appearances by Kroger mascots.
During the event, Kroger recognized its Zero Hunger | Zero Waste partner, the Food Bank of Northeast Georgia, along with its Partners in Education, including Yargo Elementary School, Bethlehem Elementary School, Haymon-Morris Middle School and Apalachee High School.
The Bethlehem Marketplace represents a $34.5 million capital investment and spans more than 118,000 square feet. Kroger officials said more than 95 percent of construction waste was recycled through partnerships with contractors and suppliers, keeping material out of landfills and supporting the company’s Zero Hunger | Zero Waste commitment.
“This is not just a capital investment. It is an investment in the community,” said Victor Smith, president of Kroger’s Atlanta Division. “This new Marketplace in Bethlehem demonstrates our dedication to being a trusted grocer, retailer and health care provider for the community.”
In addition to traditional grocery departments such as bakery, deli, meat and fresh produce, the store includes a Starbucks, Murray’s Cheese, a culinary kiosk, a fuel center, grocery pickup services and Dip Apparel. The location also features a pharmacy with a drive-thru.
Shoppers entering the store are greeted by a colorful mural created by University of Georgia Professor of Art Joseph Norman’s “Color the World Bright” team, adding a locally inspired visual element to the new Marketplace.