Holladay Hills is now home to Trader Joe’s — a grocery store where the customers frequently rave about the high-quality, fresh store-brand products and the affordable prices.
The Holladay community has been abuzz with excitement, awaiting the grand opening of the new Trader Joe’s store since its announcement. The store has become part of the new Holladay Hills development, a master-planned mixed-use project located at the former Cottonwood Mall site. On Oct. 31, shoppers began lining up outside the store an hour before the grand opening ribbon-cutting ceremony.
Holladay City is optimistic that the opening of the new store will lead to several additional signed leases when others see the tenants who will be leasing in the new development. Also, it has the potential to create a halo effect, elevating the success of all businesses in the surrounding area.
Mayor Rob Dahle stopped by the grand opening to talk with customers and share in the excitement of the moment. He emphasized the numerous benefits the new establishment will offer to the Holladay community and Holladay Hills.
“This development has been progressing slowly, but I think what you’ll see in the next six months is several leases being signed, bringing in new businesses,” he said. “Town houses are now under construction, and a small portion of the property will be dedicated to the Lifetime Fitness gym, which I believe will be announced soon. Trader Joe’s coming to Holladay is huge. What excites me the most is the potential impact it will have in terms of the overall development of Holladay Hills. This could mark the beginning of one of the most unique shopping environments, perhaps in the state.”
Holladay resident Maurene Larsen, affectionately known as “Honey” throughout the community, is now in her 80s. Even so, she was one of the first customers in line for the grand opening. Every Sunday, Honey provides a large vase full of flowers for the meetinghouse chapel where she attends church. With her keen design sense, she creates beautiful arrangements that uplift and inspire the congregation.
“I think by far Trader Joe’s has the best flowers and at a delightful price,” Honey said. “I’m thrilled every time I walk in because of the wide variety they have. This week, I’m buying flowers in fall colors. The selections are so unique and simply beautiful. Flowers make me so happy!”
Another Holladay resident, Christy Tosney, came straight from Pilates to the grand opening to pick up some of her kids’ favorite snacks.
“I have one child who simply loves the Belgian chocolate available here,” Tosney said. “Also, I thought we’d give some of their Thanksgiving popcorn a try. Three minutes in the microwave, and their Spanish-style rice is ready to go. Everyone in the family loves apple cider, so that’s definitely on the shopping list.”
General manager of the Holladay Trader Joe’s store, Douglas Overholtz, has worked for Trader Joe’s for 19 years and in seven different states. He was also the general manager of the Cottonwood Heights store for many years. “Frequently, I had Holladay residents come into the Fort Union store and express how they would like their own Trader Joe’s neighborhood store,” he said.
“The Holladay community is rich in culture and the area is enchanting. We’re trying to carry over that same enchantment inside the new store,” Overholtz said. “We think Holladay will be an excellent fit for our store. We are excited to be here and to offer Holladay a fun shopping experience along with the best quality products at the best prices.”