Essential retail and fresh food have returned to Central Mall with the opening of a full-service FreshChoice supermarket.
The launch marked the successful reopening of a supermarket in the Mall complex, following a 2024 closure.
Executive General Manager of FreshChoice, Tim Cartwright, said the opening was good news for city centre workers, nearby residents and the wider retail community.
“We are delighted to play a role in revitalising the city centre. The store concept is the latest (3.0) refurbishment for FreshChoice stores, with the most up-to-date, modern and convenient offering,” said Cartwright.
“Key services have been designed with the location in mind, including delicious ready-to-eat lunch options and extended trading hours to accommodate urban schedules and help drive foot traffic.”
The new store is expected to have an impact on the local economy, generating 40 to 50 new roles across departments, including fresh produce, grocery, and checkout.
Cartwright said another essential feature of the new store design is sustainability, with leading initiatives to reduce its environmental impact, including an on-site baling system for soft plastics and cardboard to efficiently process and recycle high-volume waste.
The store also boasts energy-efficient CO2 refrigeration systems, comprehensive LED lighting and night doors on refrigerated cases, which help to conserve energy.
The new FreshChoice has state-of-the-art technology to enhance the overall operational efficiency, including the speed and accuracy of cash handling.
The store opened on the 4th of November with a blessing, followed by speeches and the passing of the FreshChoice Koru from Tim to the store's owners, Wayne Parry and Paula Beattie.
A ribbon-cutting moment opened the new store, and the team enjoyed a special cake and morning tea.
The new store is co-owned by Wayne and Michelle Parry, Michael and Paula Beattie.
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