Fresh Market Finds Fox Point

It's been a topic of high debate since : What should fill the empty space left when the bookseller vacated in April?

An answer has finally come: The Fresh Market. The company's application to the Fox Point Village Board estimates the store will open next June.

Most residents in Fox Point or Bayside would drive to Mequon or Glendale to get what groceries couldn't be found at the mini-mart style Sendik's on the corner of Brown Deer road and Port Washington Road. But now, not only will residents be able to get their groceries just a hop, skip and a jump away, but they'll get groceries that are of a different caliber than your traiditional grocery store, according to Andrew Lewis, director of marketing for The Fresh Market.

"The Fresh Market offers high-quality food products, with an emphasis on fresh, premium perishables and an uncompromising commitment to customer service. We seek to provide an attractive, convenient shopping environment," Lewis said. 

With stores in 19 states, Fresh Market only has one other store in Wisconsin — in Brookfield. The company's website says Fresh Market operates with a "full-service philosophy," with services such as an old-world Butcher shop and European delicatessen.

Tom Bowman, a representative for Fresh Market, told Fox Point village officials earlier this month that this store will be about 21,000 square feet — smaller than the average store by 3,000 to 4,000 square feet — and will only take over the upper portion of the old bookstore.

This new grocery store will bring 45 full-time and 45 part-time jobs to Fox Point, and will be open Monday through Sunday, from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. There also will be outdoor seating for customers.

"We’re always looking for communities where residents appreciate great food, outstanding customer service and a special shopping experience because that’s what The Fresh Market delivers," Lewis said. "Our real estate team has spent significant time in Fox Point and we’re confident that the community will appreciate The Fresh Market’s unique offering."