Economic Development Opportunities

Partnering With Communities to Expand Grocery Access

We see grocery development as a catalyst for economic growth, neighborhood reinvestment and long-term community stability. Across the country, we work alongside municipalities and economic development organizations to bring value-focused grocery stores into markets where access, affordability and local ownership matter most.

A Grocery Model That Aligns With Economic Development Goals

Save A Lot’s value-focused grocery model is designed to integrate into a wide range of community development initiatives. Our smaller store footprint, efficient operations and focus on essential grocery access make Save A Lot a strong fit for revitalization efforts, redevelopment zones and food access programs.

Store size that works within existing retail infrastructure

Reliable access to affordable groceries and household items

Local ownership and job creation

Long-term tenancy that supports neighborhood stability

How Economic Development Support Can Be Applied

Economic development partnerships often play a meaningful role in helping grocery projects move forward. Depending on the community and program structure, support may take many forms.

Rather than prescribing a single approach, Save A Lot welcomes conversations around how local resources can be applied to support successful store development.

Examples of Support Areas

Capital grants or forgivable loans

Tax incentives or abatements

Infrastructure or site improvement funding

Redevelopment or revitalization programs

Store modernization or remodel allocations

Food access or workforce development initiatives

Economic Development In Action

Chicago, IL

A public-private initiative secured $13.5 million in Tax Increment Financing (TIF) to support the rehabilitation of six Save A Lot grocery stores. The investment focused on modernizing facilities and preserving grocery access in key neighborhoods across the city.

Atlantic City, NJ

A $20 million redevelopment investment supported major plaza and building improvements, including an expanded store footprint. The project helped deliver Atlantic City’s first full-service grocery store in more than 20 years.

Schenectady, NY

More than $6 million in combined public funding was secured through multiple sources, including a state-backed Food Access Expansion Grant. The investment supported a downtown grocery initiative tied to broader revitalization efforts.

North Charleston, SC

Approximately $300,000 in city funding supported the reopening of a Save A Lot location, reinforcing the role of grocery stores as neighborhood anchors and economic drivers.

Let’s Explore Economic Development Opportunities Together

Save A Lot welcomes conversations with independent operators, municipalities, and economic development professionals interested in using grocery development as a tool for long-term community investment.