Lodi officials welcome new business
Grocery Outlet holds ribbon-cutting ceremony
Several eager shoppers joined city officials and store employees for a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Thursday morning as Grocery Outlet opened its doors on Cherokee Lane, giving Lodi a third supermarket on the city’s east side.
“I wanted to see what the new store looks like, and I’m new to the area so I wanted to see what’s around my area,” Joan Olear said as she shopped.
She said she was excited about Grocery Outlet being in Lodi and was glad it is conveniently located close to her home so she is able to walk to and from it.
Pavoua Xiong was glad there was something new in town and that she has another option for groceries.
“I like that it’s closer because the other one is in Stockton, so this is more convenient for me,” she said.
According to Lodi store owner and operator Kevin Trimlett, Grocery Outlet offers basic grocery items and general merchandise products at discount prices. The store has 45 employees, Trimlett said.
Trimlett told the crowd gathered on Thursday that he has been promoting the store on Facebook and in the community and the response has been overwhelming.
“I’m very excited to be here today and it’s touching to my heart to see everyone here,” Trimlett said. “I just want to thank each and every one of you, my employees, my customers and the community. It’s really overwhelming to see everyone show up here today.”
Trimlett, who was born and raised in Grass Valley and has been living in the Sacramento area for the past 11 years, said that when it came to deciding the location of the store he wanted something close to home.
“I moved here to Lodi about four months ago and just have fallen in love with it. It’s really touching to my heart. I love Downtown Lodi,” Trimlett said.
Trimlett also recognized two special people, including longtime friend and store manager Sharon Cummings.
“It just means the world to me that she was able to join me in my dream come true. This has been a goal of mine every since I was little kid. I’ve always wanted my own business,” Trimlett said
He also acknowledged his brother-in-law Steven Swauger, who also will be serving as a store manager.
“I‘m just proud that he was willing to join me in this venture, too,” Trimlett said.
Trimlett showed his appreciation and commitment to the community during the ceremony, giving away $3,000 to local charities and agencies.
He presented Major Mark Thielenhaus of the Salvation Army with a check for $1000 and three pallets of food, gave Lodi homeless liaison officer Ryan Holz a $1,000 check for the Lodi Police Foundation to go towards homeless efforts, and presented Lodi Fire Marshall Brad Doell with a $1,000 check for the Lodi Fire Department.
Lodi Mayor Alan Nakanishi attended the ceremony and applauded the charitable donations that Grocery Outlet has already made to the city.
“I want to applaud you on what a great store you have,” Nakanishi said. “What impressed me is the fact that you’re giving a lot of contributions to the Salvation Army. Welcome to Lodi and I wish you a very happy New Year and a prosperous year.”
Lodi Chamber of Commerce CEO Pat Patrick said that after watching commercials for Grocery Outlet for months, he was excited to have the franchise in town.
“I’m excited when I see all these red shirts and jobs coming to Lodi. Thank you very much and welcome to town.”
Grocery Outlet’s hours are from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily. The store will hold its grand opening on Saturday.