Grocery Outlet Bargain Market will open 14 stores in the greater Los Angeles area, including a location in Compton, beginning in December and continuing into 2016, creating about 500 jobs, the company announced Tuesday.
Stores—locations also including Costa Mesa, Westminster, La Habra, Long Beach, La Puente, Azusa, Upland and Ontario—will be independently owned and operated, according to the company. Each outlet will employ 30 to 35 people, and the Compton store, which takes over the spot previously occupied by Fresh and Easy at 2175 W. Rosecrans Ave., is expected to open March 16. The chain is currently accepting applications, and interest individuals can visit the stores website at www.groceryoutlet.com/LA.
Co-CEO Eric Lindberg said Grocery Outlet offers name brands such as Kraft, Kellogg’s, Tyson and Amy’s Kitchen at prices up to 60 percent off traditional supermarkets by negotiating directly with manufacturers to buy overstock and surplus products at deep discounts. The stores will also feature fresh produce as well as a section called NOSH—natural, organic, specialty and healthy.
While each store will set its own hours, the general open period ranges from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Co-CEO MacGregor Read said his grandfather started the Emeryville-based business nearly 70 years ago. Grocery Outlet has more than 227 locations in California, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, Pennsylvania and Washington.
“As a family-run business, we’re proud to say our values are reflected in each of our stores,’’ he said. “From supporting little league teams to donating food to those in need, our local owners share our commitment to making a lasting impact.’’
