Big Y hosted a media event March 10 at its future location in Saugus, Massachusetts, to announce six new store openings across the state and celebrate 90 years in business.
Gov. Maura Healey addressed the gathering, calling the expansion a win for jobs and food access across the state.
The event, held at 357 Broadway, included cake, a store tour and remarks from company leadership.
Michael D’Amour, president and CEO of Big Y, outlined the growth plans, tying them to the family-owned 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,” he 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.”
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,” she said.
“Their investment in six new stores is great news for Massachusetts, creating hundreds of jobs and expanding access to quality groceries for local families. 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, talked 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 company has more than 10,000 employees and operates supermarkets, Table & Vine fine wine and liquor stores and Big Y Express fuel and convenience locations across the Northeast.
Forbes has named it a Best-In-State Employer in Massachusetts and Connecticut for seven consecutive years.
Specific locations and opening timelines for the six new stores have not been announced.
[RELATED: Topco Names Big Y’s D’Amour As Board Chairman, Shares Leadership Updates]
LOL how is this a ‘win’ with other supermarkets closing?