BJ’s Wholesale sets opening date for new concept

BJ’s Wholesale Club is going smaller — by almost half.

The membership warehouse club operator will debut a new club concept, called BJ's market, on May 6, in Warwick, R.I. At 43,000 sq. ft., the new format is about half the size of a full-sized BJ’s.

BJ’s market features top-selling fresh foods, produce, sundries, and seasonal products, along with the company’s exclusive Wellsley Farms and Berkley Jensen brands. The store offers the same pack sizes and pricing as traditional BJ’s clubs, as well as the retailer’s curbside pick-up, Express Pay and same-day delivery.

[Read More: BJ’s expands same-day grocery delivery options]

In addition, the new format will include testing of product assortments, product demonstrations and “convenience initiatives.”

“BJ’s market will serve as an exciting new innovation lab for BJ’s Wholesale Club,” said Bill Werner, executive VP, strategy and development. “We are bringing the same great savings and value our members know and love, but delivering a convenient location closer to home.”

BJ’s existing members will have full access to the new store. And new members who sign up at BJ’s market will have full access to all of BJ’s clubs and BJ’s gas stations. They can also take advantage of a limited time membership offer (through May 5) of a one-year BJ’s “Inner Circle” membership for $25 or a one-year BJ’s “Perks Rewards” membership for $65 (perks members earn 2% cashback on most BJ’s purchases).

Headquartered in Westborough, Mass., BJ's Wholesale Club operates 227 clubs and 159 BJ's Gas locations in 17 states.

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