Save-A-Lot, the nation’s second-largest grocer, has targeted Iola for a supermarket — as quickly as it can find someone to invest in the corporation and operate the store. “SAVE-A-LOT’S announcement marks a milestone in 18 months of efforts by Thrive and the countywide economic development committee to recruit a new stand-alone supermarket to Allen County,” Toland said. “But now it’s up to our community to find someone with the retail experience, financial capacity and willingness to work hard to own the license for this store.”
According to David Toland, part-time economic director for Iola and Allen County, Iola is one of eight Kansas cities that figure in the company’s immediate expansion plans. Others include Emporia and El Dorado.
Chanute and Parsons have had Save-A-Lot stores for years.
“Iola is a terrific community and a perfect fit for a new Save-A-Lot store,” said Dick Koop, a manager with Save-A-Lot. “That’s why we’re actively seeking the public’s help to find a self-starter with retail experience to own the license for the new Save-A-Lot store in Kansas,” Koop said in a press release.
Toland noted Save-A-Lot and Thrive Allen County have worked closely with the management team of the State Street neighborhood center, 700 N. State St., in efforts to locate a supermarket where Country Mart was before closing several years ago. Additional tenant improvement and equipment incentives are available.
Anyone interested in owning the license for the Save-A-Lot store is encouraged to review www.save-a-lot.com/own and then contact either the Thrive office, 620-365-8128 or [email protected] or Koop at 314-592-9653 or [email protected].
“Suggestions from the public for people who might have interest also are welcomed,” Toland said.
Save-A-Lot has a new incentive program for 2014-15 designed to help retailers open new stores. With its Licensed Store Incentive Program, all new and converted licensed stores will receive at least $200,000. First-time licensees also receive support services such as basic accounting and information technology host support at reduced or no cost the first year and management training for up to four key personnel.
Koop said Save-A-Lot was actively and strategically growing its store base to raise customer awareness and strengthen the benefits that buying in scale offers stores and customers.
The company has 1,300 stores nationwide in urban, suburban and rural areas. Koop said Save-A-Lot provides significant discounts on groceries of up to 40 percent compared to conventional stores.
Save-A-Lot looks to operate in Iola
