Mayor Andre Dickens has announced that the City of Atlanta, in partnership with Invest Atlanta and Savi Provisions, will establish two new grocery stores in Downtown and near Campbellton Plaza.
According to a press release, the Invest Atlanta has approved $8,174,991 to open the grocery stores in “low food access neighborhoods.” Dickens said it’s part of the city’s ongoing commitment to increasing access to fresh, healthy food and combatting food insecurity.
The first store, located in Southwest Atlanta at 2080 Campbellton Road SW, will be a municipal grocery store operated by Savi Provisions under a sublease agreement with Invest Atlanta. An additional location in Downtown will be operated by Savi Provisions through a sublease agreement with an existing tenant.
“We recognize the challenges faced by communities in accessing fresh and nutritious food,” said Dickens, who also serves as Board Chair of Invest Atlanta. “This municipal grocery store strategy is a significant step toward addressing food deserts in our city and ensuring that all residents can enjoy healthy, affordable food options. We believe that everyone deserves access to fresh food, regardless of their economic situation.”
The news release said both locations will offer “affordable fresh produce, meats, dairy products, and other essential grocery items” by partnering with local farmers and vendors.
The Invest Atlanta funding will be used to help build out both locations, supply inventory, purchase equipment, and other operating costs.
“Establishing grocery stores in food deserts not only serves as a vital lifeline to help underserved communities but also presents a unique opportunity to create jobs and additional investment,” said Dr. Eloisa Klementich, President and CEO of Invest Atlanta. “In addition to access to healthy, affordable food, these community grocery stores are projected to create 80 jobs with an estimated economic impact of $21 million.”
In addition to food sales, the market will serve as a community hub, offering cooking demonstrations, nutrition workshops, and resources for families to learn about healthy eating habits. To ensure affordability, the city will implement measures such as accepting SNAP benefits and offering discounts. Partnerships with local businesses and online grocery delivery and pickup services will provide additional resources and support for residents.
“Savi is honored to work with the Mayor’s office and Invest Atlanta on these transformational projects, which will provide our downtown residents with much-needed groceries, fresh produce, and meal solutions,” said Paul Nair, CEO of Savi Provisions. “For far too long, traditional grocery operators have neglected these neighborhoods, which has created negative health outcomes for our community. We are proud to be a local business supporting our fellow residents with affordable groceries and high-paying jobs. This is truly a game changer for the city of Atlanta.”
Both stores are expected to open in the second half of 2025.