Rouses Markets recently celebrated the opening of its latest store in Mississippi with an enthusiastic ribbon-cutting ceremony on October 16. This occasion drew the attention of local officials, including Biloxi Mayor Andrew “Fo-Fo” Gilich, and highlighted the growing presence of Rouses in the Gulf Coast region.
Situated at 2384 Pass Road, this new establishment spans 60,000 square feet and marks the company’s fifth location in Mississippi, making it the 66th store overall in its portfolio. This store’s launch follows closely behind another new location, established in Picayune, Mississippi, just last month.
CEO Donny Rouse expressed gratitude towards Mississippi customers for their requests and continued support for more Rouses Markets stores, stating, “This Biloxi location is a direct response to that support, and we’re excited to bring our signature Rouses Markets experience to the local community.” This sentiment emphasizes how customer input directly influences business decisions, a key lesson for entrepreneurs in ensuring service offerings meet the needs of their clientele.
The new Biloxi store employs approximately 200 full- and part-time workers, reflecting Rouses’ commitment to boosting local employment opportunities. The store promises an extensive product range and services designed to attract a diverse customer base. Among its highlighted features, it boasts the largest beer selection in the area, showcasing local and regional brands, complemented by a full-service seafood department offering in-house boiling and fresh deliveries from both the Gulf Coast and beyond. These features not only enhance the shopping experience but also promote local suppliers, an essential strategy for fostering community ties.
Rouses has taken a unique approach to integrated services within its stores. Their butcher department will provide custom dry-aged beef lockers for aging USDA Choice Angus Beef, while the bakery will offer a variety of treats including the famous Gentilly and Doberge cakes, Mardi Gras king cakes, and fresh popcorn. Such specialized offerings can create a sense of novelty and excitement, encouraging customers to visit frequently and reinforcing the brand’s identity.
Innovative food options also abound, with sushi, poke bowls, and a Mongolian grill available for shoppers craving something unique. Ready-to-eat meals cater to individuals and families on-the-go, positioning Rouses as not just a grocery store but a one-stop-shop for time-starved consumers. The inclusion of breakfast, lunch, and dinner options—alongside salad bars and hot soup offerings—ensures that customers can find meals suited to any part of their day.
Moreover, the Rouses location provides a full-service floral department catering to various occasions, adding yet another layer of convenience and choice for customers. The availability of online shopping and curbside pickup further exemplifies Rouses’ commitment to improving customer experience, addressing the modern demand for flexible shopping methods.
Rouse’s dedication to customer service has been recognized as he mentioned that customers have voted them the “Best Grocery Store on the Gulf Coast” year after year. Such accolades reflect the quality of service provided across their locations and the hard work of the staff. This recognition serves as both motivation and proof of their success strategy, which includes investing in employee development and fostering a strong team culture.
As part of its commitment to community relations, Rouses Markets operates as the official supermarket of the New Orleans Saints and employs more than 7,000 associates throughout Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama. With this expansion strategy and community engagement, Rouses Markets has been named one of Progressive Grocer’s 2024 Outstanding Independents, indicating a robust standing within the competitive grocery landscape.
In conclusion, the opening of the Rouses Markets store in Biloxi underlines the importance of customer feedback in business decisions, and the significant impact a well-designed shopping experience can have on local communities. This new store not only enriches shopping options for residents but reinforces Rouses’ mission to establish a deep-rooted presence in the Gulf Coast area.
