The landscape of Canadian grocery retailing celebrates a notable event with the opening of Longo Brothers Fruit Markets’ 40th store in Kitchener, Ontario, on November 21, 2024. This milestone showcases not only the growth of Longo’s but also the importance of community engagement in the evolving marketplace.
Founded in 1956 as a modest fruit market, Longo’s has flourished into a beloved grocery chain known for its high-quality offerings. Anthony Longo, CEO of the company, reflected on this journey during the grand opening. He stated, “Celebrating our 40th store opening is a special milestone, one that honors the vision my family started in 1956. We’ve been able to grow over the last 68 years because of the trust and shared values we have with the communities we serve.”
The Kitchener store, located at 1950 Fischer-Hallman Road, is designed with features common to other Longo’s locations, emphasizing fresh produce and sustainable practices. Shoppers will find an array of offerings from a market-style bakery and deli to fresh seafood and ready-to-go meals from Pronto Eats. Longo’s also stands out with unique products, such as fresh-squeezed orange juice and hand-stretched mozzarella.
What sets this new store apart is its commitment to sustainability. Longo’s has integrated energy-efficient LED lighting and advanced refrigeration systems that utilize carbon dioxide, aiming for a reduced ecological footprint. Furthermore, the Kitchener location participates in the Too Good To Go program, allowing locals to purchase surplus food at discount prices, combating food waste while supporting the community.
To mark the grand opening, a local event welcomed residents with celebrations that included food samples, cake, and a unique promotion where the first 250 customers received mystery gift cards valued between $5 and $400. The store manager, Brad Boin, who has been with Longo’s since 2000, expressed gratitude to the Kitchener community for their warm reception. “Our 40th store represents our commitment to quality and community,” he said, highlighting the retailer’s aim to build lasting connections.
This opening also coincides with Longo’s strategic partnerships, such as their collaboration with the Kitchener Rangers, a junior ice hockey team. Such affiliations reinforce Longo’s dedication to being a part of local culture while addressing customer needs, enhancing brand loyalty through shared community experiences.
As Longo’s looks ahead, plans for further expansion in Ontario, including new stores in Kleinburg and Colossus, signal a well-defined growth strategy within the grocery segment. The Kitchener store is operational Monday to Friday from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. and on weekends from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., catering to a diverse clientele.
Longo’s success reflects the broader trends in the grocery industry, where personal relationships, quality products, and community involvement play pivotal roles in attracting and retaining customers. The integration of sustainability initiatives resonates with today’s environmentally conscious consumers, aligning business practices with the values they cherish.
In summary, Longo’s 40th store opening not only celebrates a significant achievement for the family-operated grocer but also illustrates the ongoing transformation of retail in Ontario. This milestone offers a glimpse into how traditional grocery retailers can thrive in a competitive landscape by prioritizing community ties and sustainability.
