Ribbon-cutting caps a year of expansion in Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA – The GIANT Co. opened its fourth GIANT Heirloom Market on Thursday in Philadelphia’s Fashion District. The new outlet is part of a wave of expansion in the city by GIANT, which opened stores on Columbus Boulevard and in Doylestown earlier this month. The Riverwalk GIANT, the chain’s two-level urban flagship store in Center City, opened in March and the company’s new GIANT Direct e-commerce fulfillment center opened on November 8. The company also opened a new GIANT at 2201 Cottman Ave. on November 12.

GIANT Co. president Nicholas Bertram at the opening of the new Heirloom Market store in Philadelphia.

The newest store, located at 801 Market Street, is accessible from inside the mall as well as Market Street, and features local produce, a large plant-based department, a self-serve tap wall with more than 30 selections, a Starbucks, and a Hissho sushi bar. The grand opening event included a ribbon-cutting and remarks by GIANT president Nicholas Bertram, Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney, and Councilman Mark Squilla.

“It seems only fitting that our growth and investment in the city this year culminates with this new store in a legendary location that has served Philadelphians and visitors to our city for decades,” said Bertram.  “This store will reach residents and workers in the Fashion District and beyond, as well as visitors to Philadelphia’s nearby historic sites and museums. Always keeping in mind our purpose of connecting families for a better future, we know our customers will be delighted by the beautiful architecture and features at this GIANT Heirloom Market.”

This store is the largest GIANT Heirloom Market to date with 32,000 square feet of shopping space. Situated in the historic 1928 building that housed Philadelphia’s iconic Strawbridge & Clothier department store, the company has restored and maintained many interior design elements, including decorative trim, chandelier lighting, signage, and the famous “Il Porcellino,” the former Strawbridge’s wild boar statue.

“We’re proud that the company chose to launch its unique GIANT Heirloom Market concept in Philadelphia, and we’ve been pleased with each subsequent new store opening, each of which represents a continued commitment to our city while offering residents new employment opportunities,” Mayor Kenney said. “This location will meet a real need for the growing residential population in our exciting new Fashion District and will serve as a convenient dining destination to those visiting our great city.”

The GIANT Company opened its fourth GIANT Heirloom Market Thursday in Philadelphia’s Fashion District.

GIANT Heirloom Market draws inspiration from European grocery stores with a format and product mix tailored for urban neighborhoods. This store joins GIANT Heirloom Markets in three other Philadelphia neighborhoods: Graduate Hospital, University City, and Northern Liberties.

Like the first three GIANT Heirloom Market stores, the Fashion District location will feature Philadelphia‐area food purveyors including Claudio Specialty Foods and Isgro Pastries as well as a grind-your-own beans option featuring One Village Coffee.

Additional features of the store include:

• Plant-based department as well as gluten-free and organic offerings
• Gourmet cheese section with pairing recommendations
• Large beer and wine selection
• Tap Hall featuring 32 self-serve beer and wine located in building’s historic elevator hall
• Kombucha on tap
• Food Hall featuring Boar’s Head Deli, Hissho sushi bar and a full-size Starbucks
• 16 self-checkout registers and Scan It! Express
• GIANT Direct lockers
• Comfortable seating area with televisions

The store will also offer GIANT Direct service, allowing customers to order online for next day pick up or delivery.

At today’s ribbon-cutting, The GIANT Company announced $9,500 in donations to several community partners, including the Free Library of Philadelphia, Fire Station – Engine 8, and Broad Street Ministries and Sunday Breakfast Rescue Mission, where team members later volunteered.

Nick Meyer has been appointed manager of the store, which will operate from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a week, and employ approximately 100 full- and part-time team members.

“Having been a part of the GIANT Heirloom Market team since day one, today is a day I’ve long been looking forward to and won’t soon forget,” Meyer said at the ribbon cutting. “Our Fashion District location is the perfect blend of Philadelphia and the very best of GIANT Heirloom Market and much like the meaning of is its name, it is truly something to be treasured.  I know I speak for the entire team when I say we could not be more excited to welcome our new neighbors and visitors alike, and we can’t wait to see what they think of the store we’ve designed for them.”