Fresh & Easy To Open First Stores In Northern California

EL SEGUNDO, Calif., Aug. 19 — Fresh & Easy Neighborhood Market today announced plans to open eight stores in Northern California in early 2011. These stores, located in the San Francisco Bay Area and Modesto, will be Fresh & Easy's first north of Fresno and will create about 160 jobs in the region, bringing access to fresh, wholesome food at affordable prices to new neighborhoods throughout Northern California.

Fresh & Easy first opened in Southern California in November 2007, and has steadily expanded in the state since, moving into Bakersfield in December 2008 and Fresno earlier this year. Next month, Fresh & Easy will open nine stores in California, including the grocer's 100th store in the state.

"We're excited to continue opening new stores and creating jobs throughout California," said Tim Mason, Fresh & Easy CEO. "Customers love our stores and we are eager to introduce Northern California to Fresh & Easy and our fresh, wholesome food at affordable prices."

Northern California stores opening in early 2011:

• San Francisco
3rd St & Carroll Ave

• San Jose
Bird Ave & Minnesota Ave

• Danville
Diablo Blvd & Hwy 680

• Pacifica
Cabrillo Hwy & Linda Mar Blvd

• Vacaville
Elmira Rd & Nut Tree Rd

• Modesto
Oakdale Rd & Lancey Dr

• Walnut Creek
Ygnacio Valley Rd & San Carlos Dr

• Concord
Clayton Rd & Ygnacio Valley Rd

Fresh & Easy has created more than 4,000 high-quality jobs in California, Arizona and Nevada. Entry-level positions start at $10 an hour in California and offer quarterly bonuses of up to 10% as well as a 401(k) with company match. The company believes everyone deserves access to affordable and comprehensive healthcare and provides all employees the opportunity to work at least 20 hours per week, which entitles everyone to vision, prescription drug, dental and medical coverage with Fresh & Easy paying at least 75%.

Source: Fresh & Easy Neighborhood Market