A lot of Langley City seniors and area residents will be joining the owner and staff in welcoming the opening of No Frills grocery store at Langley Mall on Friday.
Friends Evelyn and Alice met while having a coffee at the former IGA there.
The IGA closed its doors last August leaving a gaping hole for the many seniors who live within walking distance of the Langley Mall and relied on the grocery store for all their needs.
Evelyn and Alice were walking by on Tuesday to have a little peek at what the new store looks like. Within minutes, more than a dozen seniors had walked by, many asking when it's opening and what the hours will be.
"There are so many seniors who miss it," said Evelyn. "It was the convenience of it. The prices were a bit higher but everyone could walk there."
But now the pair point out, the prices at No Frills, is all in the name.
"It's like having a mini-Superstore right here in Langley City," said Alice.
The pair said they have several friends who can't drive anymore and relied on walking to the IGA.
"I was speaking with one woman who is in a walker and she can't wait to be shopping on her own again," said Alice.
Shelves are stocked and tills are ready to go, with the store looking set to open.
While many seniors loved the small coffee seating area of the former IGA, No Frills won't offer one.
The store opening at Langley mall is called "Mike's No Frills Langley" after franchisee Mike Evans.
“I know many people in the community have heard about this No Frills store opening and have been curious about what this would mean to them," said Evans.
"My team and I are incredibly proud of this store and we look forward to being able to meet our customer’s needs with great products and low prices. We look forward to seeing everyone very soon."
Evans started his food retail career in 1980 when he worked as a clerk at Supervalu grocery store in Surrey and has not looked back. He’s passionate about the industry and serving customers. Today, he is extremely excited to be the store franchisee at this No Frills store alongside his team comprised of approximately 100 employees.
No Frills offers lower food prices and is a chain of stores in the Loblaw group of stores. It will be open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.