PITTSBURGH – Inspired by the open-air markets of Europe, the rich, industrial heritage of Pittsburgh and a true passion for food, Giant Eagle Inc., which operates more than 130 GetGo fuel and convenience stores, unveiled its third Market District location — a 150,000 square-foot culinary, dining and shopping destination — with a grand opening celebration taking place today.
When first opened in 2006, the company's initial two Market District stores introduced Pittsburgh to a whole new world of food. The Food Network's Guy Fieri said in Whirl Magazine that the Market District concept is “the Disneyland of grocery stores.” The store appeals to food enthusiasts who enjoy taking part in and learning about the sights, smells and tastes of new, fresh and exciting foods.
"When customers visit this new store, they will enjoy a world-class shopping and dining experience bursting with amazing food and food expertise with everything from cooking classes and demonstrations to celebrity chef appearances and interactive events," said Giant Eagle Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer Laura Karet.
Karet added that the approximately 650 team members led by store team leader Dan Clunan are passionate about food and provide exceptional service by sharing new products and recipes and offering new culinary ideas. Market District team members who are graduates from schools such as the Culinary Institute of America, the Pennsylvania Culinary Institute (PCI), and Johnson & Wales, complement Giant Eagle-certified Cheesemongers and other trained food professionals.
"Our food training is extensive," said Karet. "Our people experience food from producers located all over the world, from small farmhouses to large suppliers. They then utilize this knowledge to help satisfy the culinary curiosity of our customers, sharing techniques, recipes and ingredients so customers are inspired to try new things at home."
Market District also offers shoppers the opportunity to enjoy educational classes and demonstrations throughout the year at its new cooking school. A chef demonstration cooking area in the heart of store and an open presentation area for prepared foods also enable Market District chefs and food professionals to actively engage customers.
Market District also offers customers an opportunity to find natural, organic, specialty and other unique items paired with the convenience of favorite national brands and everyday needs all under the same roof. Visit MarketDistrict.com for more information.
In related news, Giant Eagle Inc. received the Green Grocer award from Progressive Grocer magazine for demonstrating highly innovative projects or efforts to help the industry as a whole become more environmentally responsible. Award winners were recognized at Progressive Grocers' Corporate Social Responsibility Awards on Tuesday in Phoenix.