New independent grocery store opens in Dallas

The independent grocery landscape seems to be seeing an increase in new stores nationwide. And The Local Checkout is ready for it.

To kick off this new store lineup, let’s talk about El Rio Grande Latin Market, which opened its fifth Dallas location on Aug. 18.

A staple for global Latin cuisine and products, the new store, which is located at 3035 N. Buckner Blvd., brings a much-needed grocery store to the city’s 7th District.

“It’s an exciting time for residents of District 7,” Dallas Council Member of District 7 Adam Bazaldua said in a statement. “I cannot be more grateful for the partnership between the City of Dallas and Vista Property Company. This partnership created a rare opportunity of bringing a new grocery store to this community. El Rio Grande will serve our community and make it easier for our residents to have access to quality food.”

Founded in 2005, El Rio Grande Latin Market now operates nine locations in Texas.

El Rio Grande Latin Market President & CEO Hamdy Shalabi. / Photo courtesy: El Rio Grande Latin Market

President & CEO Hamdy Shalabi, issued the following statement regarding the new store opening:

"The opening of our new store is a heartfelt journey that starts from our humble beginnings. It feels like coming full circle to give back to the community that raised us and open a grocery store on the streets where I grew up. Even though this area is often seen as a rough part of town, I truly believe it's about giving people the respect they deserve. This neighborhood has been lacking access to fresh food for a long time, and this supermarket means so much more than just a place to shop—it's a way to bring people together and contribute to our community's growth by providing jobs and access to quality groceries at an affordable price. It proves that dreams can come true, communities can thrive, and even in areas with limited access to resources, positive changes can happen. We hope to inspire people that no matter where you come from, with hard work and dedication, aspirations are achievable. Every item we put on the shelves is more than just another product–it's a step towards changing the way people view local, independent grocery stores. On the same streets where we grew up, we're making a difference by giving people the resources, job opportunities and respect they deserve.”

Southeast Growth

The Southeast is garnering much chatter in the grocery space as grocery retailers battle for market share there. So, let’s look at what independents are doing in this area.

Heading East towards the Atlanta area, The Local Checkout is happy to report that Savi Provisions, a neighborhood market with locally sourced gourmet and organic foods, fine wines and spirits, opened its latest location at The Hill. Located at 1160 Johnson Ferry Road, across the street from Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, this new market concept is led by Devang Patel of SRSK2 Business, LLC.

“With Savi at The Hill, I’ve really become integrated in the community and feel a great connection with my neighbors,” Patel said.

A daily destination for shoppers, the brand said it is continuing to expand its footprint in the Southeast with more stores slated to open in Charlotte and Durham, among other cities, through the end of 2023.

Go Lotte Go!

Residents in Tampa, Florida, will soon have a Lotte Plaza Market Asian Grocery Store in their neighborhood.

With a goal to open “50 Lotte Plaza Market locations by 2030,” according to the grocer’s website, the retailer is on its way.

The new location will be at 17605 Bruce B Downs Blvd.

Grocer Grant

Liviri, a packaging solutions company, is launching its first-ever eGrocer grant program—an initiative that will award resources to an independent grocer.

The Fort Collins, Colorado-based company said on Wednesday it's committed to supporting grocers in driving operational excellence and optimizing supply chain management for the ever-evolving eGrocery sector.

Liviri General Manager Ken Longval said in a statement, “We understand that implementing and optimizing these programs can be a challenge for independent grocers, and we are launching this program to provide support in taking their efforts to the next level.”

To apply, grocers can submit an application here.

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