Finally! Downtown Eau Claire Is Getting A (Small) Grocery Store
It appears downtown residents have something to look forward to in the fall: a new grocery store will be opening up in the Phoenix Park Neighborhood. It’s slated to open Oct. 1, and 25-year-old Eau Clairian Carolyn Miller is excited to unveil Charly’s Market. Named after her beloved black lab Charly, the new market will offer downtown residents “convenience shopping” and local foods.
That’s right: major food distributors will not be getting in on this local action. Shoppers can expect to see high-quality meats, a deli, canned goods, milk, common grocery items and baking goods, as well as customized meals “for those on the go.” Miller wants to make it clear to locals that she “does not want to interfere with the farmers market or Just Local Food.” She simply believes it is the right time for residents in that area to have another option for convenient, quick shopping.
Miller believes local response will be positive, especially for those who live near the city center. “For people who don’t have transportation, or who are close to downtown,” she said, “it’ll be great for them to come and get their weekly necessities.” This is also a good opportunity for people in that area who are looking for jobs. Charly’s Market is expected to open with 10 employees and three managers. Despite the economic climate, Miller is optimistic, believing the time is right for Eau Claire residents to support local shops.
