If you’ve driven by the corner of Woodward and Mack recently, you’ve seen the speedy progress the new Whole Foods Market in Midtown has been making. The walls are up, the concrete floor is poured, and right now they’re totally on-target to open at the end of May or beginning of June.
“We’ve been fortunate that we’ve had no major construction setbacks,” says Whole Foods Market Community Liaison Amanda Musilli.
To prepare for opening, Whole Foods will host a local vendor fair on Feb. 28. There is an application online for local food artisans to complete by Sunday, Feb. 17. If their products meet the market’s quality standards, Whole Foods will then set up a one-on-one with their regional buyers. “It’s exciting for someone who is looking to grow their business and get their products in a retail setting.” This vendor fair is by invitation only, so applications must be received by the deadline in order to be eligible.
“This is kind of a unique thing that we’re starting to do for all of our new stores that we’re opening,” says Musilli. “We found this is a great way to get new products in right away instead of opening first and then looking for (local vendors).”
This week the Midtown location also kicks off employment information sessions. On Feb. 13 and 15, Whole Foods will host its first series of information sessions regarding employment at Whole Foods in partnership with various community organizations (listed below). Jobs will be posted online starting April 6.
Wednesday, Feb. 13
10 a.m. to 12 p.m. – U-SNAP-BAC
5 p.m. to 7 p.m. – Focus: HOPE
Friday, Feb. 15
10 a.m. to 12 p.m. – Southwest Solutions
5 p.m. to 7 p.m. – SER Metro Detroit
Source: Amanda Musilli, Community Liaison for Whole Foods Market
Nicole Rupersburg, Model D.
