Latino grocery store ready to open in Merced. What’s planned for grand opening
Vallarta Supermarkets is ready to open its first location in Merced County and has a big celebration planned for its first day.
The family-owned supermarket chain will hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony and grand opening celebration for the Merced community on Wednesday, June 10.
The celebration will begin at 7 a.m. and feature entertainment, community donations, giveaways and samples of Vallarta’s fresh offerings, according to a news release.
The new store is at 851 W. Olive Ave. in the Marketplace at Merced.
The first 300 customers through the doors on opening day will receive a free reusable bag filled with groceries. In addition, five schools and charities will each receive a portion of $7,500 in donations from Vallarta.
“We are thrilled to continue growing in Central California and bring the Vallarta experience to Merced,” Allie Garcia, vice president of marketing at Vallarta Supermarkets, said in the news release. “Each new store represents more than just a place to shop. It is a place where families can find fresh, high-quality ingredients that celebrate their culture and traditions.”
More about Vallarta Supermarkets
Vallarta Supermarkets was founded in 1985 by Enrique Gonzalez. It began as a neighborhood carnicería — or Mexican butcher shop — in Southern California.
The company has grown into a grocery chain with more than 50 locations across California, including two stores in Modesto and several in Fresno.
The chain is known for its fresh produce, in-house bakery items and traditional Mexican foods.
The Merced store will be the second Vallarta location to feature Marisquería Costa de Oro, known for fresh ceviches, made-to-order seafood tacos, coctel de camarón, and tostadas including the burnt habanero ahi tuna, alongside kid-friendly plates.
The Merced store has brought 175 jobs to Merced, the news release said. The 52,000-square-foot store features a custom mural by local artist Patricia Pratt.
