Zehrs Kingsville holds grand re-opening after $5 million upgrades

By Mark Ribble

A $5 million investment in upgrades to the Zehrs store in Kingsville brought dozens of people out to the official grand re-opening on Friday, July 15.

Store Manager Eric Hodgson welcomed those in attendance, which included local dignitaries, vendors, shoppers and employees.

“It’s a brand new look for our community and we couldn’t be more excited,” said Hodgson. “To our Zehrs Kingsville team, thank you so much from the bottom of my heart.”

Mike McDonnell of Zehrs Kingsville, Bob Smith, Zehrs employee, Eric Hodgson, Manager Zehrs Kingsville, and Tony Rivolta, Zehrs Kingsville, cut the ceremonial ribbon for the grand re-opening.

The store — which first opened in 1985 — underwent some changes and additions that will bring the shopping experience to even more higher standards than what customers are used to, according to Hodgson.

“Through those doors, you’re going to witness something truly remarkable,” he said.

They added several new departments, including a sushi bar and Mealtime Marketplace, and upgraded the floral department, ready-to-gomeals, local product sections and much more.The store currently employs about 130, with plans to hire more associates began on April 18 and was supposed to take 13 weeks. Hodgson says that it took a little longer but was well worth the wait.

Kingsville Mayor Nelson Santos, in one of his last public appearances as Mayor of Kingsville, lauded the store for the service it has always provided.

“On behalf of the town, thank you all for continuing to see the bright lights that shine in Kingsville,” he said.

Hodgson then presented the Kingsville Community Food Bank with a donation cheque for $5,000, as part of Zehrs Kingsville’s commitment to helping the community.

Linda Lynch of the Kingsville Community Food Bank receives a cheque for $5,000 from Zehrs Kingsville manager Eric Hodgson.

Linda Lynch gladly accepted the cheque and thanked Zehrs for all they have done.

“Every week, we get an order and everyone is always so friendly and helpful,” she said.

At that point, the ceremonial ribbon was cut, as Hodgson was joined by his assistant managers Mike McDonnell and Tony Rivolta, and the longest-serving Zehrs employee in Canada, Bob Smith.

A tour of the store was then taken by councillors, shoppers and other intrigued parties, showing off the new amenities available to customers.

Kingsville councillor Larry Patterson, Deputy Mayor Gord Queen and retired Zehrs employee Noreen Fontes check out the fresh pork at Zehrs Kingsville during the grand re-opening. Noreen worked at the store for 23 years and was there doing her weekly shopping.