Grocery vet to open new store concept with ‘unparalleled’ “ shopping experience
A new grocery store concept that combines convenience, dining and recreation (complete with a putting green) is coming to Augusta, Ga.
FreshTake is set to open its doors in summer 2024 in the former 42,000-sq.-ft. Whole Foods Market location at Washington Crossing in Augusta. The initiative is spearheaded by fourth-generation grocer Jackson Mitchell, CEO of Jackson Mitchell Holdings, which operates five Little Giant Farmers Market locations in the Atlanta area.
FreshTake is designed to offer a seamless integration of shopping and leisure activities. The store will feature seating for 130, two outdoor balconies and a spacious mezzanine seating area (with complimentary WIFI) above the in-store cafe, providing professionals with a spot to work or meet over coffee.
The outdoor patio seating area will boast a walk-up barbecue smokehouse for a lunch or dinner experience. Patrons can also unwind by the fire pit or practice their golf skills on a 5-hole putting green.
Other highlights of FreshTake will be "Jackson's," an in-store beer and wine bar. Shoppers can catch up on their favorite sports on 13 large televisions while ordering from selection of 10 tap beers, wine, made-to-order sushi and bar food items.
The store’s food service offerings will cater to all tastes and include a sushi bar, pizza and pasta station, sandwich bar, full-service hot food bar, bakery and fresh-squeezed juice and smoothie bar. A variety of grab-and-go options will also be featured.
Other offerings with include a fresh seafood department providing free steaming services, in-store butchers and a dedicated meat section. Customers can even select their choice of fresh meat and have it prepared by in-store chefs with the innovative "grill while you shop" option.
The assortment will also include a diverse selection of fresh produce, an extensive assortment of bulk food items and a beer cave known as the "Ice Box." In addition to groceries, Fresh Take will offer health and beauty items, general merchandise and a full-service pharmacy.
FreshTake will offer Instacart pickup and delivery services, and will also provide prepared foods delivery. It will also have catering services.
"This store represents the culmination of my career and a deep love for the grocery business. said CEO Mitchell. “ Our goal is to create a space that not only offers top-quality groceries but also becomes a hub for the community, where people can come together to enjoy great food, entertainment, and convenience."
Mitchell added that Fresh Take will provide an “unparalleled grocery shopping experience for the Augusta community."