Industry Intelligence

Wegmans Food Markets Inc.’s plans to open its first store in western New York were delayed by the notorious “Blizzard of ’77,” but a few days later, on Feb. 6,, the Dick Road location made its official debut, and the rest, as they say, is history.

“This is a special time for Wegmans as we recognize the relationship we have with our employees and customers alike by celebrating our anniversary with the great community that is Buffalo,” noted Michael Keating, EVP of Wegmans’ Buffalo Division stores.

Rochester, N.Y.-based Wegmans operates nine stores in the Buffalo area, although their reach actually extends much further via sponsorships and community giving throughout western New York. “Our involvement in the community is part of what we do every day,” said Theresa Jackson, who works in the grocer’s consumer affairs department. “By supporting agency partners like the Food Bank of Western New York, the United Way, and a host of charities and programs, we are able to impact the lives of people throughout our region.”

To mark the anniversary of its first store in the area, Wegmans will recognize those associates among its 5,000 or so employees with 35 years of service or more this month, a s well as hold in-store celebrations in each of the nine stores, so shoppers can join in the fun.

The We Love Buffalo events are scheduled to take place on Saturday, Feb. 11 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Customers can treat themselves to cookies and sparkling juice while checking out products and services that have a regional connection or are exclusive to Wegmans, including CocoPops, Wegmans Menu magazine, locally grown and produced products, Buffalo Chicken options in prepared foods, and the Shoppers Club card.

Family-owned Wegmans operates 79 stores in New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Virginia, Maryland, and Massachusetts.