New look for Safeway in Sharon Heights shopping center New look for Safeway in Sharon Heights shopping center (July 27, 2005)

Store stays open as remodeling goes on.

By Marjorie Mader

Almanac Staff Writer

Safeway in the Sharon Heights shopping center is going upscale as it expands into space formerly occupied by Longs Drugs.

Built in the mid-1960s, the store is being remodeled and expanded by about 20 percent to a total of 24,069 square feet.

With the work scheduled to be completed by October 1, the new Safeway will have the amenities of what the company calls its "Lifestyle" format, said Jennifer Webber, head of public affairs at Safeway's Northern California headquarters in Pleasanton.

Shoppers are already using some of the new features. A new produce section and an expanded floral department are located where Longs used to be.

Architectural renderings, posted on easels at each entrance to the store, give shoppers a view of changes ahead.

A new seafood service (including sushi) and a meat department offering individual service are planned.

Other amenities will be an olive bar, soup bar, more hot and cold prepared food, and an expanded bakery section.

In addition, there will be more pre-packaged items, and in the refrigerated area, Safeway's "Signature soups," said Ms. Webber.

The "Lifestyle" format includes a new color scheme with warmer tones and updated lighting to highlight fresh produce and other products, said Ms. Webber. New floors will replace the tired and outdated vinyl.

Changes to the Sharon Heights' Safeway are part of a company program to remodel virtually all of its 1,800 stores in the United States, said Ms. Webber. Plans are tailored to a store's size and its location, she added.

Remodeling at the Sharon Heights store began almost as soon as Longs Drugs moved from its former location and re-opened July 17, 2004, in a renovated and larger, 10,000-square -foot space at the Sharon Heights shopping center, formerly occupied by Capriccio restaurant.

It's Safeway's policy that its stores remain open for business during their remodel, said Ms. Webber.
E-mail Marjorie Mader at mmader@AlmanacNews.com

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