Earlier this month, Trader Joe’s opened a new store in Sherman Oaks, California, right across from an existing location that has been a neighborhood staple since 1973. This new store, located on the ground floor of an apartment complex, is about 40% larger than the original, offering a wider selection of products and more space for shoppers.
The decision to keep both stores open surprised some. Initially, the plan was to close the older store once the new one was ready. However, Matt Judd, the manager of the new store, mentioned that the company thought it would be fun to have both locations available. “Our business in this city has been so tremendous, so we decided to keep them both,” he said, adding that the city deserves it.
The new store features an underground parking garage, which is a big plus for customers who have struggled with the cramped parking at the older location. Many shoppers expressed excitement about the new store. Customer Steve Emrick noted, “This one’s way better. The other store can get pretty congested, and the parking was not as tight here.”
While some customers are thrilled about the expansion, others feel that a new store wasn’t entirely necessary. Jacob Ruiz, a regular at the original Trader Joe’s, said he was excited to visit the new store but believed the company should consider opening in other neighborhoods.
Despite the changes, both stores saw a steady flow of customers on opening day. Judd expects many loyal customers to continue visiting the older location. Trader Joe’s confirmed that both stores will remain open, emphasizing their goal to provide great products to as many people as possible.
The opening of this new Trader Joe’s marks a significant moment for the Sherman Oaks community, offering shoppers more options while maintaining a beloved local favorite.