A Trader Joe’s will open next Fridayin the Queen Creek Marketplace near Barrio Queen and PetSmart.

The 12,500 square-foot grocery store will offer daily staples, seasonal items and unique products from around the globe.

“Trader Joe’s is a grocer unlike any other,” said Angie Kory, vice president of leasing at Vestar, which operates numerous shopping centers. “Between products you won’t find anywhere else, a vast wine and beer selection and friendly employees, we know Trader Joe’s will be an incredible addition to our already extensive mix of Queen Creek Marketplace shops and restaurants.”

Trader Joe’s will hold a ribbon cutting ceremony on Oct. 16 to celebrateits grand opening. Store Captain Jimmy Samuel, a 22-year company veteran,  will be there along with Trader Joe’s crew members to welcome shoppers.

The celebration also will feature trivia, giveaways, and local artwork that pays tribute to Queen Creek local attractions such as Horseshoe Park and Equestrian Center and the San Tan Mountains.

During its grand opening, and throughout the pandemic, Trader Joe’s will implement social distancing and sanitizing precautions to follow COVID-19 guidelines and to help keep customers safe.

Six-foot social distancing stickers will be placed outside as customers wait to enter, and a limited number of customers may enter the store at a time.

Although COVID-19 has negatively affected many businesses and shopping centers, the Queen Creek Marketplace continued to grow welcoming a Total Wine, Skechers, Barrio Queen and Nekter during the pandemic, said Christina Caldwell, a marketing consultant who announced the Trader Joe’s opening.

The marketplace is a neighborhood shopping, dining and entertainment destination. It is located off Ellsworth Loop and Rittenhouse Roads, in the heart of Queen Creek, and it features more than 60 retailers.

Reach breaking news reporter Brooke Newman at [email protected] or on Twitter @brookerae17.

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