Newsletters: May - June 2008

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Expansion Update

Natural Times-May/June 2008

By Cristin Burns

One down, two to go. The first phase of construction is now complete and open for business! I guess you could say that the expansion is done with the renovation yet to be tackled.

If you haven’t already I encourage you to come see the new space. You can finally see the design elements that I have been talking about for months—concrete floor, exposed ceiling, tile, paint colors. What you will not be able to see is our first ever produce prep room and cooler. Produce has moved into their new space which allows them immediate access to all of their products, two multi-compartment sinks, overhead shelving and prep tables. The stock room and receiving pad are also complete. Deliveries are now received behind the store. We hope that this will alleviate traffic congestion along the side of the building.

Phase two is now in progress. The deli service counter, seating area and old restrooms are being demolished. Don’t despair; deli food is still being served. The hot bar, salad bar, coffee and tea are located against the temporary wall and our menu is the same, minus made-to-order items (smoothies, fresh juices, sandwiches). Tables and chairs are available across from the dairy section and the new restrooms are open at the front of the store, behind the registers.

Having the store be part new and part old presents some challenges. The floor in the new space is two inches higher than the existing store. Eventually, it will all be level. In the meantime, ramps are in place to help with the uneven floor and barriers are in place to prevent tripping. If you should see a potential danger please bring it to our attention. It is our goal to make each phase as safe as possible.

I hope that you enjoy the new look of New Leaf Market as much as I do. Please visit our website www.newleafmarket.coop for updates and photos of the progress.