Foxtrot Makes Moves to Reopen in Chicago Area

Foxtrot, the upscale convenience store chain, is preparing for a significant comeback in the Chicago area. The new ownership has applied for liquor licenses to reopen four key locations: Wicker Park, Old Town, Gold Coast, and Fulton Market. The specific dates for these reopenings are yet to be announced, but the company has assured that further details will be available soon.

This resurgence follows a turbulent period for Foxtrot, which, alongside the grocer Dom’s Kitchen & Market, ceased operations late last year under the joint entity, Outfox Hospitality. This closure impacted 33 Foxtrot locations and two Dom’s stores across major markets like Chicago, Washington D.C., Dallas, and Austin. Despite this setback, Foxtrot was recognized as one of the Top 10 Brands to Watch in 2024 by Placer.ai, thanks to its rapid growth and strong commitment to local brands.

The newly reopened stores promise a familiar shopping experience, retaining their original layout and merchandising strategies that focus on small and local makers. What sets Foxtrot apart is its unique offerings like $5 pours of in-house wines during store openings and various giveaways, appealing to local consumers who appreciate quality goods.

Leading this new chapter is cofounder Mike LaVitola, who aims to expand Foxtrot not only in Chicago but also in Dallas and Austin throughout the summer. With a fresh infusion of capital from Further Point Enterprises, which won the company’s assets in a recent $2.2 million auction, Foxtrot looks set to re-establish itself as a staple in the local grocery landscape.

As Foxtrot gears up for its grand re-entry, the community eagerly anticipates the return of a beloved store that underscores local flavor and refined convenience.