Whole Foods opens sprawling new California store with ‘trained cheesemongers’ and 1,500 items

A massive Whole Foods Market has opened in Northern California offering shoppers in the Sacramento area a new place to pick up some of their favorite artisan products.

The 43,000 square foot Amazon-owned market opened its doors at 8100 Elk Grove Blvd. in Elk Grove, on September 16, a press release from the company read.

It marks the fourth store in the area and the 94th location in the Golden State.

“The new location’s product assortment features more than 1,500 local items from California-based suppliers, sourced with the help of Patrick Wyman, Forager for Local & Emerging Brands at Whole Foods Market,” the press release read.

The company said speciality departments like the cheese counter features products from local producers like Nicasio Valley Cheese, Adante Dairy and Charles Chocolates. 

“The cheese counter is overseen by trained cheesemongers who can offer recommendations for any occasion,” according to the release.

Shoppers can also pick out produce sourced from “more than 200” California-based suppliers, including Durst Organic Growers, Full Belly Farm, and Coke Farm, just to name a few. 

Customers can also find a seafood counter offering “expert fishmonger service, ready-to-cook and ready-to-eat meal solutions,” with all items “either sustainable wild-caught or Responsibly Farmed,” the company said.

A full-service meat counter features “made-in-house fresh sausage, marinated and seasoned meats for quick and easy meals,” along with items from local suppliers. 

In addition to the selections of fresh produce, meats and cheeses, shoppers can pick up some fresh baked goodies or check out the prepared food section which features fresh pizza by the slice, hot food and salad bars.

At the grand opening on Wednesday, the first 300 customers through the doors got to take home a “limited-edition Elk Grove tote bag” and a coupon offering savings up to $100 off, the Sun reported.

Pictures on social media showed lines of customers outside eager to get in and shop at the store.

The Austin-based store was founded in 1980 and since that time has expanded to more than 500 stores across the U.S., Canada, and the U.K. 

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