Big Y hosted a media event March 10 at its future Saugus location to announce six new store openings across Massachusetts and celebrate 90 years in operation. Gov. Maura Healey delivered keynote remarks, calling the expansion a win for jobs and food access across the state.
The event, held at 357 Broadway in Saugus, included a store tour, remarks from company leadership and a cake-cutting ceremony marking the anniversary.
Michael D’Amour, president and CEO of Big Y, outlined the company’s growth plans and tied them to the company’s founding values.
“As we look ahead, we do so with clear purpose – investing in the future by creating jobs, supporting local suppliers and expanding our presence in new towns throughout the Commonwealth,” D’Amour said. “Guided by our values, we are committed to responsible growth that strengthens the local economy while delivering lasting value for our customers, employees and neighbors.”
Governor Healey framed the expansion as emblematic of what she called the Massachusetts business story.
“Big Y is a great example of what makes Massachusetts special — a homegrown company that started here, grew here and continues to thrive here. Their investment in six new stores is great news for Massachusetts, creating hundreds of jobs and expanding access to quality groceries for local families,” Healey said. “We’re proud to celebrate another milestone for a Massachusetts company that has been part of our region for generations.”
Tim Cunniff, co-founder and EVP of sales at Little Leaf Farms, spoke at the event about the retailer’s role in the farm’s growth.
“Big Y believed in us from the start, opening their stores, supporting us through every challenge and helping us bring locally grown lettuce to their customers,” Cunniff said. “We are incredibly fortunate to have Big Y as a true partner.”
90 years and growing
Founded in 1936 by brothers Paul and Gerald D’Amour in Springfield, Big Y takes its name from an intersection in Chicopee where two roads converge. The family-owned company now employs more than 10,000 people and operates supermarkets, Table & Vine fine wine and liquor stores, and Big Y Express fuel and convenience locations across the Northeast. Forbes has named Big Y a Best-In-State Employer in Massachusetts and Connecticut for seven consecutive years.
Specific locations and opening timelines for the six new stores were not disclosed at the event.
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