The new Macey’s store that opened Sept. 18 in Highland, Utah, is the first first store licensed by Salt Lake City-based Associated Food Stores (AFS). The store’s owner is Ridley’s Family Market.
Being an AFS licensee mean that all business operations for the store will be performed in accordance with AFS policies and procedures, but the Ridley’s organization maintains ownership.
“Innovation is key to our business model, and this is the latest example of that,” said Darin Peirce, VP of Associated Retail Operations. “We’re excited to see how both organizations will benefit from this pioneering partnership.”
Mark Ridley also sees this as a great opportunity for both organizations.
“I’m excited for the opportunity to partner with Macey’s in such a new and dynamic way. I’m looking forward to a successful partnership,” he said.
The new location will feature an expanded delicatessen with various options for lunch, such as sushi, a salad bar and a hot buffet. There also will be the signature Macey’s items like Kong Kones, doughnuts made fresh in the bakery, fresh-cut fruit and local produce.
Macey’s offers online shopping, curbside pickup and self-checkout options including Skip, which allows customers to scan items as they shop and check out from their phone. This will be the first Macey’s to offer a U.S. Post Office within the store.
The grand opening included a flag-raising ceremony.
All other Ridley’s Family Market locations will continue to operate as usual.
AFS was established in 1940 when 34 independent retailers joined together to battle high supplier costs and competition from large chain stores, the company says. It currently serves more than 400 retailers across the Intermountain West.
