The Fresh Market offers an extensive deli and bakery

University City is getting a new choice in upscale grocery shopping. The Fresh Market is coming to Mallard Crossing on Prosperity Church Road.

The NC-based chain describes itself as “a specialty grocery retailer focused on providing high-quality products in a unique and inviting atmosphere with a high level of customer service.”
Charlotte and Asheville customers posting online Yelp reviews praise The Fresh Market’s meat, wine and produce selections, full-service deli and bakery, organic products and focus on customer service.

“I need a grocery store that makes my life easier, and this one does just that,” wrote Becky from Asheville.

Opening this fall in renovated retail center

The Fresh Market has leased the former Food Lion space at Mallard Crossing. The new store will open in late fall after major renovations of the former Food Lion space and the shopping center, said William Lisk, asset manager for property owner South Central Oil Co.
Lisk credited the many positive business announcements in University Research Park over the past two years, plus the area’s already strong demographic and high traffic counts on Prosperity Church and Mallard Creek roads for attracting the high-end grocer to Mallard Crossing.
The Fresh Market plans to use 25,000 square feet of the former Food Lion space for its new store. Lisk said the remainder will be available for lease to other businesses.
The Fresh Market has three other stores in Charlotte and more than 150 stores in 26 states. The chain added more than 20 stores in the last year, including its second store in Asheville, which opened last Wednesday on Hendersonville Road. That store employs about 90 people.

The Fresh Market experience

What can shoppers expect at University City’s Fresh Market? Judging from The Fresh Market’s grand-opening announcement for the Asheville store, “Unparalleled product selection and expert customer service in an inviting atmosphere,” including:

• A bakery that produces 30 freshly baked breads and 14 different pie varieties daily.
• A full-service meat counter with freshly ground beef.
• A wide selection of ready-to-serve entrées.
• Fresh seafood delivered to the store several times per week.
• More than 200 imported and domestic cheeses.
• A bountiful produce department with more than 400 items and a large organic selection.

See The Fresh Market video, and more

Visit thefreshmarket.com for general store information and to sign up for email newsletters.
A company video for prospective employees also gives a glimpse of The Fresh Market experience. VIEW THE VIDEO