Grocer creates 95 jobs with the opening of its fifth location in Kitchener
Kitchener, November 18, 2021 – Today, Food Basics officially opens the doors of its newest and fifth location in Kitchener as part of the Williamsburg community. The modern, over 31,000 square foot site, located at 1270 Fischer-Hallman Rd. will be the discount banner’s 141st store.
The contemporary retail space represents a major investment by Food Basics which will employ a 95-person strong team. Customers will be able to shop for high-quality, budget friendly Irresistibles and Selection products at the new store which will also include fresh BBQ chickens, locally sourced products, fresh meat and produce and self-checkout lanes.
“Food Basics is always looking to expand to new communities, and we are excited that we are continuing to grow and invest in a dynamic and diverse community like Williamsburg,” says John Manax, Vice President of Operations, Food Basics. “No matter where you live, people are always looking for ways to save. Residents who may be first-time shoppers at Food Basics will get to know us as a discount grocer that is a reliable source for fresh, always in-stock, healthy food at great prices.”
To further strengthen its commitment to the community, Food Basics will donate $2,500 to the Salvation Army Kitchener who is affiliated with The Food Bank of Waterloo Region as part of the Community Food Assistance Network. All Kitchener Food Basics locations, in addition to the Waterloo store, are partnered with The Food Bank of Waterloo Region in support of METRO’s One More Bite food recovery program – to help curb food insecurity and reduce the environmental impacts generated by the landfilling of organic waste. In 2021 the One More Bite program has recovered and redistributed 77,642 lbs. of food to this community – that is the equivalent to 64,686 of meals. The Williamsburg store will be joining the program in the coming weeks.
“The pandemic has been tough for many people and their families, which is why we are pleased to be able to create 95 jobs for the Williamsburg community and provide locals with quality and affordable products,” said Mark Chaves, Store Manager, Food Basics. “I’m looking forward to opening our doors and welcoming everyone to our new and modern store.”
Residents can begin to shop at the Food Basics on November 18 with store hours on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Food Basics is taking all the necessary steps to keep staff, customers and the entire community safe and healthy. Since 1995, Food Basics has been helping customers save money on their grocery needs by providing Always More for Less. Food Basics operates on three guiding principles: Always Fresh, Always in Stock and Always at Great Prices. Food Basics is the discount banner of Metro Ontario Inc. and currently operates 141 stores across Ontario.
About METRO inc.
With annual sales of $18 billion, METRO Inc. is a food and pharmacy leader in Québec and Ontario. As a retailer, franchisor, distributor, and manufacturer, the company operates or services a network of some 950 food stores under several banners including Metro, Metro Plus, Super C and Food Basics, as well as some 650 drugstores primarily under the Jean Coutu, Brunet, Metro Pharmacy and Food Basics Pharmacy banners, providing employment to almost 90,000 people. For more details, visit corpo.metro.ca.
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METRO INC.
Media Relations
1 800 463-2190
media@metro.ca