Grocery Outlet opened its newest store on Fulton Avenue with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

 

SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) - A new chapter in local grocery retail began Aug. 28 as Grocery Outlet opened its newest store on Fulton Avenue with a ribbon-cutting ceremony that drew community leaders, elected officials, nonprofit partners and neighbors alike.

The 18,000-square-foot store, located in a former Rite Aid, promises shoppers savings of 40 to 60% on brand-name groceries, fresh produce, dairy, meats and a robust NOSH (Natural, Organic, Specialty, Healthy) section. The location also features beer, wine and spirits.

But this grand opening was about more than low prices, it marked a milestone for the Sacramento region as Keith and Phyllis Johnson became the first Black independent operators to open a Grocery Outlet in the area.

“Each of our Grocery Outlet stores is independently owned and operated, and today, we are proud to introduce the first Black-owned Grocery Outlet in the Sacramento area,” said Jason Miyata, director of sales and merchandise for Grocery Outlet. “Keith and Phyllis Johnson have poured their hearts into this store. This has been a long-time dream for them, one rooted in purpose and community.”

Highlighting their commitment to service, the Johnsons presented $500 community grants to two local nonprofits: UniverSOUL Café and Lee King’s Miracle Homes Foundation.

The couple, who celebrated 30 years of marriage this June, stood alongside their children, Keith Jr., Cameron and Cassidy, as they cut the ribbon on what they hope will be a transformative space for the community.

“We are blessed today,” said Phyllis Johnson. “We are excited to be in this neighborhood. We didn’t just bring fresh products, we brought jobs and we’re making economic changes. When we had to hire people, we came here. This is about bringing opportunity back into our neighborhoods.”

Keith Johnson, who is also a local pastor and a member of the Roberts Family Development Center, reflected on his nearly two-decade journey.

“I started in this business 18 years ago,” Keith Johnson said. “We brought a grocery store that was a need in this area. Our customers are our boss, we are here to serve, we are here to do things that’s right for this community, we are here to drive business. We are here to support the surrounding area and the Sacramento area.”

The store’s opening was met with enthusiastic support from local and state representatives, including Mika Klinsmann from State Senator Roger Niello’s office and Iris Austin from Sacramento County Supervisor Rich Desmond’s office, both of whom presented certificates of recognition to the Johnsons.

Dignitaries and city officials were present at the Grocery Outlet grand opening event. From left are Kay King, president of the California Black Chamber of Commerce, Keith and Phyllis Johnson, owners and operators of Fulton Avenue Grocery Outlet, Mika Klinsmann from State Senator Roger Niello’s office and John Hoffman, CEO and president of the Greater Arden Chamber of Commerce.

John Hoffman, president and CEO of the Greater Arden Chamber of Commerce, praised the couple for investing in a neighborhood that has seen its share of economic challenges.

“You are helping not only the small business scenario but all the people who live and work here,” Hoffman said.

Kay King, president of the California Black Chamber of Commerce, urged the community to maintain its support beyond opening day.

“If you are from Sacramento, you know that we are a community-driven city,” King said, “If you really want to support these business owners, don’t just come on days with cameras and lights. Come every day. Support your neighbors. It’s tough being in business. When they say we have food desserts in our community, often we are the culprits. If you steal from the stores that are in your community, you’re going to shut them down.”

Highlighting their commitment to service, the Johnsons presented $500 community grants to two local nonprofit organizations: UniverSOUL Café and Lee King’s Miracle Homes Foundation.

“You make great work in the community,” said Phyllis Johnson. “You’re out here feeding homeless people. That’s what we’re about, lifting people.”

Cristopher Ashley, spokesperson for UniverSOUL Café, accepted the donation with gratitude.

“This will help those who are unhoused, living in poverty, facing food insecurity and lacking basic human needs,” Ashley said. “May this day mark a beautiful chapter in our partnership.”

Dariann Mack of UniverSOUL Café described their grassroots approach: collecting unused food from restaurants and stores, cooking meals in a community kitchen and distributing them to those most in need.

Nathan-Earl Lee, founder of Lee King’s Miracle Homes Foundation, shared his plans to reopen a boys’ home as a transitional, sober living space.

Grocery Outlet employees helped customers bag their purchases on the grand opening of their new store.

“This donation is much needed right now,” Lee said. “It tells me my efforts haven’t been for nothing.”

The outpouring of support extended beyond dignitaries and nonprofits. Residents and friends of the Johnsons celebrated the store’s arrival as a beacon of hope.

“This store brings new energy and excitement to a community that has seen businesses close and move out,” said customer Robin Carter. “I don’t live in this area, but I’ll drive here just to support them.”

Jennifer Willis, a longtime friend, echoed that sentiment.

“All communities need access to fresh fruits, vegetables and edible foods. Keith and Phyllis are bringing that here,” Willis said.

For Tanika Benahini, a nearby business owner, the store offers more than convenience, it offers equity.

“In this economy, food deserts are real,” Benahini said. “Now people won’t have to choose fast food because it seems cheaper. This Grocery Outlet gives them better options and better health.”

The first 100 customers received a Bliss Buck gift card valued between $5 and $500, all shoppers received a free limited-edition reusable bag with purchases and a chance to win $1,000 in free groceries.

The new location on 1309 Fulton Ave. will be open daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. For more information, visit https://www.groceryoutlet.com.