Cat Romaine
The local Kroger is undergoing renovations to become a superstore. Oxford store manager Jeff Neal, who oversees the day-to-day process of the expansion, said that the result of the renovations will “blow your socks off.”
The renovations, which began in early August, will expand the grocery store from 54,000 to 109,000 square feet.
The new addition will house perishable produce, while the entirety of the current square footage will be filled with nonperishable items. This will allow more room for the foods on shelves and will cut back on constant restock by the staff.
The new side will also double the variety of produce, meat and seafood, and add more selection in both the deli and bakery.
“(We want to) do a better job at being in stock on products,” Neal said. “(We) want to provide a better shopping experience for customers.”
Along with additional shelf space, the Kroger expansion is bringing in additional services, including an improved selection of small appliances, such as coffee makers and blenders. There are plans to open an unannounced in-house restaurant and a Starbucks.
Neal said that the Oxford branch was due for a revamp. He said the staff wanted to provide a friendlier and more fresh shopping experience for customers.
“We want to provide the citizens of the town and students as well with a better experience. They definitely deserve it,” Neal said. “We are excited to see what we can do for the community.”
The new side of the store is projected to be complete by spring 2020, and the entire renovation is expected to be completed the following fall.
