San Diego's first Wal-Mart Neighborhood Market will be located on Imperial Avenue just east of downtown, the company announced today.
The 46,000-square-foot grocery store-style outlet will go into the old Farmer's Market building between 21st and 22nd streets. Wal-Mart officials said they will restore the historical character of the vacant structure.
"The size and scale of this new store is reflective of the surrounding area, and our affordable grocery offerings help serve a real need in the neighborhood," said Steven Restivo, senior director of community affairs for Wal-Mart. "As we continue to evaluate opportunities to open stores across the region, we also will continue to be flexible in our approach to local communities."
The facility, which will employ 67 people, will offer fresh produce, meat and dairy products, frozen foods, dry goods and staples, health and beauty aids, stationery and paper goods, pharmacy, deli and bakery items, and pet supplies.
It wasn't immediately known when the store will open.
The first Wal-Mart Neighborhood Market opened in 1998, and there are now about 167 across the country.
Last year, Wal-Mart promised to build a dozen stores in San Diego over a five-year period. The pledge came just before the City Council repealed an ordinance requiring developers of superstores to file economic impact reports on the neighborhoods where they plan to build.
