Nash Finch's Avanza Coming to Omaha

MINNEAPOLIS -- Grocery wholesaler and retailer Nash Finch Co. here said yesterday it's bringing its Latino-focused banner, Avanza Supermarket, to Omaha.

The company is converting a Food Bonanza at 30th and Leavenworth Streets to the Avanza format, and plans to reopen it before the holidays.

The plans for a new store signals a possible change in strategy for Nash Finch. Avanza concept was originally launched in 2002 in Denver and rolled out to other markets, but in 2004, Nash Finch said it planned to sell off its Avanza stores. The company never found a buyer. It still operates two Avanza units in Denver.

Alec Covington, president and c.e.o. of Nash Finch, said yesterday that the growth of Hispanic families in Omaha attracted the company, according to press reports. He also said Avanza may continue to expand, as there are many "underserved" neighborhoods in the Midwest with strong growth in Hispanic population.

The remodeled store will include more than 400 produce items, with more varieties of fresh and dried spices and chilies; a full-service meat department; a bakery featuring selections of Latino pastries and rolls; and authentic Hispanic cheeses.

The first Avanza opened in Denver in May 2002 and was following by additional locations in Denver, Chicago, and Pueblo, Colorado.

Covington estimated the redesign and renovations to the store would cost nearly $1 million, according to reports.
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