NORTHFIELD — Two months after Jody James became the new owner of the Northfield Food Mart at 74 Main St., he’s holding a grand opening for the community that he says has welcomed him.
James, 37, of Greenfield, purchased the store on June 20 from William Barnes. The store had been passed down through the Barnes family since it opened in August 1949.
“It’s been a big learning experience,” James said of his first few months as owner. Owning a grocery store is an entirely new experience for him, having spent the past 15 years in the restaurant business.
The celebration, which will be held outside the store Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., will give residents a chance to meet James.
“There’s probably still some people in town that don’t know there’s a new owner yet,” James said.
Additionally, residents can see the recent changes James has made to the store, which include increasing stock, painting the interior walls light blue and gray, installing new coolers, plastic panels over the dairy cooler to conserve cold air and new ceiling panels, and adding LED light bulbs.
“I’m hoping people come out and check out the new digs here,” Manager Sharon Parsons said. “We’re going to have a lot of good sales, and face painting and balloons for the kids.”
Additionally, the celebration will include free hot dogs, hamburgers and watermelon, giveaways and door prizes from local businesses.
James sees the event as an opportunity to give something back to the community and to show the customers of Northfield Food Mart his appreciation.