PITTSBURGH -- Giant Eagle here plans to open a 13,000-square-foot prototype in Harmar Township, combining a small market with gas pumps and a drive-through pharmacy. The new format, Giant Eagle Express, is expected to open next summer, according to a report in The Pittsburgh Business Times. The company would not confirm any other locations, but sources told the Business Times that Giant Eagle Express stores also are being considered for the city's North Side and elsewhere. The new store will be larger than Giant Eagle's GetGo convenience stores and roughly comparable to the size of a major chain drug store. Craig Cozza, who has developed drug stores throughout the region, told the Business Times that Giant Eagle is the leading pharmacy retailer in the Pittsburgh area. He said the company is protecting its position against drug chains such as Walgreens and Rite-Aid, which offer grocery items, and getting closer to its customers.
