We all kinda knew it was coming, but it doesn’t make it less exciting — Trader Joe’s is eyeing Chattanooga. 👀 Trista here, and before we get our hopes up (I really want accessible cauliflower gnocchi, y’all) keep in mind that the popular grocery chain is looking at other cities in Tennessee as well, with a goal to open 20-30 stores a year throughout the country.
Let’s be real, we already have some pretty great grocery chains in town. There are multiple Publix locations (which was named America’s favorite grocery chain in 2018), plus a Whole Foods + Earth Fare. And speaking of Publix, I learned recently that you can order groceries + food from the deli online — who knew? We’ll have more on that soon, though.
Cleanup on aisle pupper — another heart melted. | GIF via GIPHY
So, why do people love Trader Joe’s so much? One, because it’s affordable. Two-buck chuck, anyone? 🍷 Two, there’s something about the well-organized shelves + tropical atmosphere that’s kitschy yet welcoming. And three, the employees are always so nice, and that’s probably because TJ’s pays a living wage, which in turn helps customers feel good about shopping there.
Fast facts
- Trader Joe’s is a California-based company, operating out of Monrovia (a cuuuuute town near Los Angeles — visit if you ever get the chance ☀️).
- TJ’s has four total stores in Tennessee — two in Nashville, one in Knoxville, + one right outside of Memphis.
- Noogans have been passionate about bringing the store to our city — check out this Facebook group.
- River City Co. put out a survey in 2017 and TJ’s was the top request from the 1,100 people who participated.
- If you haven’t requested a Chattanooga store yet, you can do that here.
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