The Jewel-Osco grocery store chain has made a notable addition to its portfolio with the opening of a new supermarket in Diamond, Illinois, marking a significant milestone as it observes its 125th anniversary. The store, located at 2707 E. Division Street, officially opened its doors on October 22, 2024, after more than 25 years of planning and anticipation. This venture reflects not only a new chapter for Jewel-Osco but also highlights the evolving landscape of retail in response to consumer needs.
Jewel-Osco President Mike Withers emphasized the long journey that led to this store’s opening. “This has been 25 years in the making,” stated Withers during the soft opening event, underlining the importance of community support and strategic planning in achieving this goal. The store was built in an area experiencing growth, located southwest of Joliet in Grundy County, where there has been an increasing demand for a full-service supermarket.
The ceremonial ribbon-cutting featured local dignitaries, including Village of Diamond Mayor Teresa “Terry” Kernc, who played a pivotal role in fostering community relations and facilitating the store’s establishment. In his address, Withers acknowledged Kernc’s dedication, stating, “You have a little bit of the Jewel in you—you don’t take no for an answer.” This interaction emphasizes the collaborative effort required in enhancing local retail infrastructure.
From an employment perspective, the Diamond location has created 185 jobs, combining seasoned professionals from other Jewel stores with new hires from the local community. Ken Rinaldi, Senior Vice President of Retail Operations for Jewel-Osco, shared insights on the staffing strategy, highlighting the commitment to local employment. This local hiring strategy not only boosts the community’s economy but also ensures that the staff members have a vested interest in providing excellent service to their neighbors.
Spanning 62,918 square feet, this new store boasts a modern design and a well-curated assortment of products. Special features include an expansive produce department, designed to engage shoppers with visually appealing displays. The produce section, situated conveniently across from a Starbucks and adjacent to the floral department, makes it easier for customers to access fresh fruits and vegetables while enjoying a coffee.
Jewel-Osco’s new deli department stands out with a focus on quality, featuring Boar’s Head products, which enhances the store’s appeal to health-conscious consumers and food enthusiasts alike. The deli is not just a space for cold cuts; it offers a variety of grab-and-go options and freshly prepared foods catering to busy lifestyles.
During the grand opening, festive displays that celebrated Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas were showcased, creating an inviting atmosphere for shoppers. This seasonal alignment serves as a powerful marketing tool, drawing in customers who are eager to start their holiday shopping and meal preparations. Additionally, customers were treated to food samples from various vendor partners and could enjoy sparkling cider or Prosecco, reinforcing a celebratory vibe at the event.
This store in Diamond represents the 189th Jewel-Osco location in the Chicago metropolitan area, solidifying the brand’s distribution network in key markets. The significance of Diamond’s opening lies not only in its physical manifestation but also in its strategic role within the larger framework of Jewel-Osco’s and parent company Albertsons’ growth strategy. With 2,269 retail stores under multiple banners and a solid position among the top food retailers in North America, Albertsons continues to prioritize expansion in areas demonstrating potential for market growth.
Furthermore, Jewel-Osco’s commitment to sustainability and innovation can be seen in operational features designed to meet modern consumer expectations. From eco-friendly packaging solutions to fresh, locally sourced products, the new Diamond store is poised to be a neighborhood gem while aligning with broader trends in the supermarket sector, which emphasizes health and sustainability.
As the retail environment continues to shift due to changing consumer behaviors, Jewel-Osco’s continual investment in new locations illustrates a proactive approach to meet customer needs. Their adaptability to current trends—such as healthy living, convenience, and local engagement—positions them well for the future.
The Diamond location stands as a testament to Jewel-Osco’s long-standing commitment to the communities it serves. With a focus on quality, service, and community connection, it not only enhances the local grocery landscape but also reflects the ongoing evolution within the supermarket industry, where consumer expectations play a pivotal role in shaping retail strategies.
