By Joyce Kryszak
Buffalo, NY – Buffalo's West Side is home to a brand new, full service Tops Super Market.
Dozens of store representatives, local politicians and community leaders helped unveil the new store on Niagara Street Wednesday morning.
The doors opened to a long line of officials early Wednesday morning. They made the traditional speeches then cut the ceremonial ribbon.
But, by 9:00 sharp, the aisles were filled with eager shoppers from the West Side neighborhood.
The new 40,000 square foot store features such amenities as a pharmacy, in store banking and deluxe carryout cafe.
It replaces the much smaller Tops right next door that served the West Side for more than 36 years.
Philip Perna is president of the Tops franchise. He said it is a proud but bittersweet celebration.
"Tops has a rich history here on Niagara Street, and the venerable old store has served the community since 1966," said Perna.
However, it's a history not shared across the city on Buffalo's East Side.
Residents there have been without a full service supermarket for several years.
But that will soon change.
Construction is currently underway on Jefferson Avenue for another Tops Supermarket.
Frank Curci is President for Tops Markets. He described the East side Tops as a significant investment for the company.
"We're really excited about it. We think it's a part of the city that's under served. It's not currently served by Tops," said Curci. "And we think there's a lot of business to be done. The community has needs and we think we could satisfy those needs. And it's a great business decision for us."
The east side Tops will also be a full service supermarket, offering an array of fresh produce and meats, as well as an in store pharmacy and banking. A grand opening is scheduled for mid-June.