The "what" and "where" was confirmed last week when Council approved commercial space for the Rainbow subdivision, and now the "who" has been answered a week later:
"Loblaws has leased 15,000 square feet in the project with a unique store concept, new to Whistler," states a press release from Rainbow Plaza's developer Rainbow Canuck. It is set to open late 2014.
"Loblaws will operate a full-service grocery store focusing its market on the residents of Rainbow and the surrounding communities. The store will be comprised of a complete grocery offering including bakery, fresh fruit and deli products."
Loblaws has 1,000 corporate and franchise supermarkets, operating under 22 regional and market segment banners. Its private-label program includes grocery and household items, clothing, baby products, pharmaceuticals, financial services, cellular phones, and general merchandise under such brands as President's Choice, No Name, Joe Fresh, Everyday Living, Exact, and Teddy's Choice.
A major branded service station, which will be owned and operated by a local Whistler resident, is also in the works. It will have a gas bar, small convenience store and offer gas, diesel, alternative fuels and an electric charging station. The brand will be announced in the coming weeks.
The plans for the commercial space at the Rainbow neighbourhood were approved by council at its last meeting March 19. Council gave the green light for the mixed commercial/residential development — a three-building proposal that will see more than 21,000 square feet of commercial space and 46,000 square feet of residential apartment units five years after the Rainbow zoning was first approved.
The plans include: two one-bedroom units, 37 two-bedroom units, four two-bedroom plus den units and six two-storey units.
