When one door closes, another opens — at least in the case of the Kroger grocery store locations in Hampton.
Kroger officials announced in a recent news release the store’s location on Coliseum Drive is closing Tuesday before the newest location on Mercury Boulevard opens Wednesday.
“We’ve enjoyed working with the city of Hampton and our joint venture partner, Southeastern Development, on this project, and we’re looking forward to seeing our customers enjoying this bigger and better Hampton Kroger,” said Billy Milton, store manager of the new Hampton Kroger.
All 102 employees from the Coliseum location will transfer to the new 105,000-square-foot building on Mercury Boulevard but the retailer will also hire 135 new associates, officials said in the news release.
The grocery chain invested more than $16 million for the location in the Riverpointe Shopping Center allowing for more features, including an in-store Starbucks with seating for more than 30 patrons, expanded sushi bar, and a Murray’s Cheese Shop “with in-store cheese experts,” according to the news release.
To mark the store’s opening, the grocer is donating up to $10,000 to local organizations, including the Virginia Peninsula Foodbank, and is rewarding the first 300 customers with gift cards and a reusable grocery bag.
Los Angeles Chargers quarterback and Hampton native, Tyrod Taylor, will also be at the store shopping for the local foodbank.
“The entire team has worked hard to build a store they’re proud of, and now we’re all ready to get to work,” Milton said.
Doors open at 8 a.m. for the new Kroger location at 1050 West Mercury Boulevard. Kroger officials said customers can also expect giveaways and activities throughout the store on opening day, including a drawing for $500 in free groceries.
