News Summary
St. John, Indiana, has officially begun the construction of a new Jewel-Osco grocery store. The store, set to open in 2026, will occupy approximately 70,000 square feet, offering various products and services, including fresh produce and a full-service pharmacy. This project represents a significant investment in the local community, expected to create over 150 jobs and contribute to the revitalization of the area. The store will be the first new Jewel-Osco location in Northwest Indiana in over 20 years, addressing a long-standing community need.
St. John, Indiana – Groundbreaking Ceremony Marks the Start of New Jewel-Osco Store
The town of St. John, Indiana, officially commenced the construction of a new Jewel-Osco grocery store, with a formal groundbreaking event held on September 4. The store, expected to open in 2026, signifies a major development in the local retail landscape, aimed at revitalizing the community and providing new shopping options for residents.
Details of the New Store
The upcoming Jewel-Osco will be located at 9548 Wicker Ave. in St. John, occupying approximately 70,000 square feet. It will feature a wide array of products and services tailored to meet the needs of local shoppers, including fresh produce, prepared meals, household staples, and health services. Notably, the store is set to incorporate several modern design elements, such as an indoor cafe, a full-service pharmacy with a drive-thru, and an in-store Starbucks.
Construction and Investment
The project is being developed by DeMao Retail, a company specializing in the growth and expansion of national retailers. The general contractor overseeing construction is Peterson Co., based in Indianapolis. The total investment for the project is estimated to be between $31 million and $33 million.
Community and Economic Impact
The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by representatives from Jewel-Osco, local government officials, community stakeholders, and project partners. The development is expected to generate over 150 employment opportunities for local residents, providing a significant boost to the local economy. This initiative is viewed as a key step in the ongoing revitalization of St. John, marking a new chapter for the town, which has seen notable growth in recent years with an influx of new homes and businesses.
Historical Context and Significance
The Jewel-Osco store will be the company’s first new location in Northwest Indiana in over 20 years. It also addresses a long-standing community need, as the site previously housed a Kmart that closed in 2012 after remaining vacant for more than a decade. The former Kmart building had become an eyesore in the area and was historically associated with a tragic mass shooting in 1985. The redevelopment effort is part of broader community planning to transform the vacant space into a thriving retail hub.
Local Reactions and Future Outlook
Officials have described the project as “monumental” and a “new chapter for the town”. Local leaders have emphasized that the project reflects sustained efforts to enhance commercial vitality and improve the quality of life for residents. The upcoming store is expected to serve as a catalyst for continued growth, with new housing developments and businesses emerging in the vicinity, further supporting the town’s economic development goals.
Summary
In summary, the new Jewel-Osco store in St. John represents a significant investment in the community’s future. Its strategic location, modern amenities, and potential to generate employment highlight its importance as a catalyst for regional growth and revitalization. The project underscores the town’s commitment to transforming previously vacant and underutilized properties into productive retail spaces, fostering economic sustainability and community engagement for years to come.
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HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- NW Indiana Business: Jewel-Osco Breaks Ground
- Wikipedia: Jewel-Osco
- NWI Times: Groundbreaking Event for Jewel-Osco
- Google Search: Jewel-Osco St. John Indiana
- ABC7 Chicago: Jewel-Osco Acquisition of Strack & Van Til
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Grocery Store
Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER
INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER The INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIndianapolis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Indianapolis, Marion County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Indianapolis 500, Indy Jazz Fest, and the Indiana State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Indy Chamber and Visit Indy, plus leading businesses in motorsports and healthcare that power the local economy such as Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IU Health. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Indiana's dynamic landscape.
