Winn-Dixie Bows 1st Central Fla. ‘Transformational’ Store Remodel
Winn-Dixie Stores Inc. has opened its first “transformational” store remodel in central Florida, located at 1565 U.S. 441 North (Orange Blossom Trail) in Errol Plaza in Apopka. The “transformational” tag refers to the stores’ ability to revolutionize the shopping experience for customers.
“This store exemplifies our commitment to the residents of Apopka and serves as a one-stop grocery destination catering to the needs, tastes and preferences of the surrounding community,” Dan Lafever, regional VP at Jacksonville, Fla.-based Winn-Dixie, which operates 484 supermarkets, including 379 in-store pharmacies, in Florida, Alabama, Louisiana, Georgia and Mississippi.
Among the physical changes to the location are hardwood flooring throughout the produce, deli and bakery departments, in addition to highly polished concrete floors elsewhere that resemble granite; updated lighting; and a brighter, more colorful décor. Along with expansive wine and cheese sections, the Apopka Winn-Dixie now has bigger meat and seafood departments and a dedicated area with free Wi-Fi access and complimentary coffee.
Further, as well as a greatly expanded produce department, the revamped store offers a massive new deli serving restaurant-quality entrees and side dishes prepared by experienced chefs, including made-to-order pizza, seven flavors of chicken wings, a barbecue bar, and a carving station with fresh fish, poultry and prime rib. Winn-Dixie and Winn-Dixie Organic & Natural private label products on sale at the store provide national-brand quality at substantial savings.
Additional improvements include a new store entrance with an outdoor market; an expanded selection of specialty desserts, pastries, made-to-order cakes and breads in the bakery; an expanded selection of domestic and imported wines; a larger seafood department where fresh sushi is created by an on-site chef (above); a remodeled, enlarged pharmacy including a wellness center; and an upgraded floral department featuring an assortment of seasonal merchandise and specialty gifts
“With an enhanced product selection and expanded departments, guests will enjoy a fresh and local shopping experience every time they visit our store,” said store director Tom Seay.
To celebrate the grand reopening, Winn-Dixie plans to hold a series of celebrations this month that include cooking demonstrations, food tastings, live entertainment, raffles and giveaways.
Similar construction and renovations have already begun on central Florida Winn-Dixie stores in Longwood and Fern Park. The grocer intends to open a total 17 “transformational” stores over the coming year at a cost of about $5.5 million per site.