Preview Night at Smart and Final Northridge

I’ve always felt that Smart and Final was kind of like my shopping secret, and now my little secret is expanding and opening another awesome store in Northridge, California. Lucky me, I was able to attend the Preview Night and get a first-hand look at this new location.

The Northridge store is the chain’s 188th grocery store. I had no idea they had that many stores, although it makes sense considering we have TWO of them in Santa Clarita alone. This grocery chain is located in California, Nevada and Arizona, but it’s been around since 1871. (Yes, you read that right… 1871!) The newest addition officially opens on November 13th and I have to admit that I don’t think I’ve ever seen a more beautiful grocery store. The Preview Night was exclusively for Smart & Final employees, executives and local businesses. It was wonderful seeing the employees (all 75 of which were hired locally) show off their new store to their families. The one thing that I noticed was a true sense of family among everyone in the store. The pride they all felt was addicting, and I found myself really wishing the store was “open for business” so I could fill a shopping cart.

Walking into the store, the first thing you notice is the incredible produce department. This “Extra” Smart & Final has the most gorgeous fruits and vegetables. It rivaled any farmer’s market I’ve been too. Go ahead, I dare you to not start drooling and getting the urge to eat healthy. The prices are pretty awesome; you get those big box store prices, but don’t have to purchase huge bulk packages… unless you want to. That’s what I love most about Smart & Final… you can get the bulk items you want, and the smaller, family sized items you need. And no membership cards! Woo Hoo!

I was fortunate to get a chance to meet some of the employees and it was really sweet when the Store Manager called his wife up to thank her for her support and present her with a huge bouquet of flowers. Loved that!

Smart & Final sure knows how to throw a party. There was live music and food/drink stations up and down most of the aisles.

I’m heading back tomorrow so I can actually do some shopping. The best thing about this new, big, beautiful store is that it has all my favorites.

The night wrapped up with the traditional ribbon cutting ceremony. It was held outdoors in front of the store, although it was dark out and hard to see very well. It was still a lot of fun.

If you want an awesome shopping experience, follow Smart and Final on Twitter and Facebook. You can also check out their weekly Social Circular online at their website. And for even MORE inspiration, take a look at their Pinterest boards. Seriously… there is a wealth of goodness going on here.

Near the San Fernando Valley? Go take a look at the new Smart & Final!
18555 Devonshire Street (near REI)
Northridge, CA 91324