BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Thousands of Alabamians will visit the state’s first Trader Joe’s location Tuesday on its opening day, celebrating the grocery store that has become somewhat of an icon for foodies across the country.
Hip and health-conscious alike, Trader Joe’s tropical vibe and wholesome products at lower prices than the competition have made the chain the go-to grocer for all things foodie in many of the country’s larger cities.
The mood at the Birmingham Trader Joe’s Tuesday morning was electric, as early lunch-takers sojourned to the Summit, battling the much-feared traffic all the way.
“Today has just been bananas,” said one crew member who was, you guessed it, holding a box of bananas.
People began lining up at 4:45 Tuesday morning to be the first to “cut the lei,” officially opening the store.
Look what’s on the shelf for Trader Joes Grand Opening! @YellowhammerAle pic.twitter.com/Gyo4PDZD3y
— Robin Hoshor (@YellowhammerRep) October 13, 2015
So pumped that Trader Joe ‘s opens in Birmingham today! Life just got better. #TraderJoes #twobuckchuck — BirminghamMom.com (@BirminghamMom) October 13, 2015
First of many Trader Joe’s trips. So excited we finally have one! #traderjoesbirmingham @ Trader Joes https://t.co/1mU8E02JT2
— Jeanna Reed (@jeannareed) October 13, 2015
Happy Trader Joe’s Day Birmingham! (I’ve only been waiting 7 years for this day…) A photo posted by katiecgilbert (@katiecgilbert) on
This month, Trader Joe’s lineup will include dozen’s of pumpkin items, tapping into a pop-culture theme during the cooling months of September and October, with everything from Pumpkin Spice Salted Caramels to Pumpkin Toaster Pastries gracing the shelves.
Madhouse isn’t exactly the most appropriate term to use, as smiles were plastered on the faces of shoppers and crew members alike.
Many have called the Trader Joe’s store evidence of something bigger; an exciting energy that has returned to the Magic City as young professionals of every race and creed have begun making their homes in the state’s largest metropolis once more.
“I really do believe this is a great thing for Birmingham,” said Trader Joe’s shopper Katie Gilbert, a young Birmingham transplant who braved lunch-hour traffic to fill her cart with Trader Joe’s branded goodies as well as beer from a local brewery. “Not only is Trader Joe’s just delicious, it also offers healthier options (especially for the vegetarians among us) at a more affordable cost. It also exposes us to more foods and flavors from around the globe.”
While there have been some frustrations expressed with the location chosen—traffic at The Summit is hectic at best—most cities where Trader Joe’s have opened host more than one location, giving many the hope that the healthy fare and fun atmosphere will soon be accessible for folks all over the greater Birmingham area.
Let’s Hear It: Will you brave the traffic to see what all the fuss is about? Let’s talk about it in the comments on Facebook!
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— Elizabeth BeShears (@LizEBeesh) January 21, 2015
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