The News Herald (Willoughby, OH)
LUCKY’S MARKET MAKES ITS MARK
Specialty grocer has opening after years of planning
An abundance of delighted smiles lit up Lucky’s Market at the store’s grand opening celebration this week in Concord Township’s Gristmill Village.
Those associated with helping the store happen are pleased that after years of work and planning a full-service supermarket has finally arrived to replace the vacant space formerly occupied by Reider’s Grocery.
The establishment is the 16th in the Saltzman family’s business which also operates Lucky’s in Cleveland and Columbus as well as 13 Dave’s Markets in Northeast Ohio.
Steve Saltzman, one of five generations of the family that has served local communities since the 1920s, is enthused about their latest venture.
“Every nook and cranny in the store we hope brings excitement and great food,” he said at the Sept. 1 grand opening.
One hour prior to the public opening at 9 a.m., township officials and invited guests had a chance to chat with owners and
staff while perusing the fully stocked, state-of-theart store.
Lake County Auditor and former township trustee Christopher Galloway was among the many people who said that seeing the store finally come to fruition was exciting.
“I had my first meeting with the Saltzmans in 2017,” Galloway said. “I knew that Reider’s was in trouble so we started looking around and talking to local grocers, that was our preference. We started the conversation but things take time.”
Township Trustee Carl Dondorfer recognized the work of former trustees Galloway, Connie Luhta and Paul Malchesky, stating that “we would be remiss if we didn’t give credit to our predecessors,” while adding that the current board of trustees wrapped up the endeavor and “brought it home.”
Fellow Trustee Morgan McIntosh officially welcomed the operation and acknowledged the importance of the store to residents.
“I campaigned for Concord Township trustee two years ago and the number one question I (heard) was ‘When are we going to get a grocery store?’” he said.
Trustee Amy Lucci proudly noted that the new enterprise is “another reason that makes Concord stand out.”
Shoppers at the latest Lucky’s will find clear, colorful signs designating various departments, including apothecary, bakery, deli, floral, prepared foods and more.
Wine and beer manager Michael Schultz noted that his department will focus on what’s trending in the market at affordable prices.
Along with dozens of local and national wines offered by Lucky’s is its own brand at $5 a bottle.
During designated times throughout the week a Sip and Stroll experience is offered. Customers can purchase a glass of wine or pint of beer (each $2) to be enjoyed while shopping.
Natural and organic products along with standard fare are found in almost all departments, including meats and seafood. Gerber’s all-natural chicken is a very popular item, according to perishable director Vince McDonough who has worked with the Saltzmans’ business for 28 years.
“We introduced it at Dave’s about a year ago and it just took off,” he said.
Bison and all-grass fed beef are other healthy options. Butchers are on-site and will specially cut items when requested.
Rolling out sushi situated in a dedicated in-store area are chefs freshly preparing the signature Japanese dish that’s highlighted on Tuesdays for $5. Other on-the-go meals at a cost of $5 each are made-to-order sandwiches in the deli.
Bargain hunters may want to take advantage of double ad Wednesdays when sale items from the previous week plus the upcoming week are both available.
Concord Township resident and Lucky’s shopper Kristie Zappitelli is delighted with the new onestop shopping opportunity.
“It’s a store where you can get everything. If I want to go organic I can grab that, but there are other options too,” she said.