B&R Opens New Hastings, Neb., Russ’s Market

B&R Stores opened its newest Russ’s Market store in Hastings, Neb., directly behind the location of a previous Russ’s Market. At 50,806 square feet, the building is about 60 percent larger than the former store and offers a number of new services and products.

Pat Raybould, president of B&R Stores, said the company’s $12 million investment strengthens its commitment to the people of Hastings and the surrounding area. “Russ’s Market has been a part of Hastings since 1986, and now we’re ready to serve the Russ’s community in exciting new ways,” he said. “This year is the 50th Anniversary of Russ’s Market stores. And there’s no better way to celebrate than with a brand new state-of-the-art store, such as the one we just opened in Hastings.”

The new Russ’s Market will employ 152 people, an increase of about 60 full- and part-time jobs. It’s new offerings include:

• Café, featuring a full breakfast menu, fresh pizza, made-to-order deli sandwiches, gelato and sushi
• Pharmacy, with a drive-through window
• Floral department
• Fresh seafood
• Expanded selection of natural/organic and international food items
• Expanded wine and spirits section

According to Raybould, the new store will use about half the electricity of the previous store thanks to a number of energy-saving features including more efficient lighting and refrigeration units.

The former store building will soon be torn down to make room for an expanded parking lot. In the meantime, Russ’s Market customers will be able to park at the nearby First St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, south of the store. Construction of the new parking lot is expected to be completed in late September.

Lincoln, Neb.-based B&R Stores operates four store concepts (Russ’s Market, Super Saver, Save Best Foods and Grand Central Apple Market) located in seven cities across Nebraska and Iowa.