New Discount Format Valu King Debuts in Eastlake, Ohio

The first unit of a new value-focused grocery format, Valu King Food Market, has opened in the Cleveland suburb of Eastlake, Ohio. Positioned as a everyday low price operator, Valu King will focus on everyday needs, such as meal staples and health and beauty items, as well as a mix of popular national-brand products offered at advertised prices, said a spokesman for the grocer.

The 28,000-square-foot Valu King opened in a former Tops supermarket at 34700 Vine St. in Eastlake. It will carry between 6,000 and 8,000 SKUs, and will accept manufacturer coupons.

Pittsburgh-based Giant Eagle Inc. has an investment stake in the company, but Valu King spokesman Erik Yorke told Progressive Grocer that Valu King is being "managed as a separate entity, and operated autonomously with a unique team," and that "Giant Eagle has no direct involvement in the operations of Valu King."

Yorke said Valu King's management team will "closely monitor" the inaugural store's progress, and would consider "opening more down the road as demand dictates."

The store will feature full fresh meat and produce departments, thaw-and-sell bakery items, packaged deli items, dairy, a frozen food section, and a variety of grocery items, health and beauty products; and beverages, including juices and soft drinks, beer and wine.

It will carry a variety of value-priced brands such as Valu Time, Food Club, Full Circle organic foods, Top Care, and World Classic. In addition, it will offer special value deals on different national brand products throughout the year.

Among the deals offering during the store's grand opening earlier this week:
Coca-Cola Products, 12-packs, 4 for $12
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, $1.47 per pound
Red seedless grapes, .99 cents per pound
Breyers Ice Cream, 48 oz. containers, 4 for $12
USDA boneless Strip Steaks, $5.99 per pound

The store will also feature an area dedicated to common over-the-counter medications; and a Dollar Zone where customers can find 1,200 general merchandise items for $1.

The Unit employs just about 30 staff members.

Valu King Food Market will accept all major credit cards, as well as cash, debit cards, check, EBT, and WIC.