LAKELAND – The county's first GFS Marketplace store is scheduled to open in Lakeland in late September.
The Marketplace stores, operated by Michigan-based Gordon Food Service, offer foods in bulk sizes, as well as various kitchen and dining supplies. Typical customers include restaurants, caterers and nonprofit organizations, but GFS Marketplace also sells to the public and doesn't require a membership.
"Consumers can shop in our stores and take advantage of buying restaurant-quality products in large sizes without membership fees," said GFS spokesman Mark Dempsey. "It's a high-service experience, so we're different than (warehouse) clubs in that respect. Our stores are very warm and inviting from a décor and layout standpoint."
A 15,000-square-foot GFS Marketplace is being built in North Lakeland at 3723 U.S. 98 N., at the former site of a Lone Star Steakhouse. Dempsey said GFS officials are planning a late September opening. The store will employ about 35 people.
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