ICYMI: Whole Foods Is Coming To Decatur

DECATUR, GA -- Decatur is finally getting it Whole Foods. And when it opens, it will be the first 365 by Whole Foods Market location in Georgia.

The company confirmed the plans in a news release Wednesday evening.

Decatur is one of six new leases announced Wednesday for the 365 by Whole Foods Market concept, bringing the total number of those stores in the works to 19. The first is set to open in Silver Lake, California on May 25.

The 365 Markets are smaller than typical Whole Foods stores, designed to be quick and convenient.

"Experience and efficiency were top-of-mind when making investments in developing these stores," said Jeff Turnas, president of 365 by Whole Foods Market, in a news release. "Our new stores will give shoppers access to a thoughtful selection of high-quality food in a fun and efficient environment, whether it’s for a quick lunch stop or a weekly shopping trip."

The store will be part of the North Decatur Square shopping center currently in development. It will be on North Decatur Road and Church Street, just north of the city limit.

In a separate news release, developers S.J. Collins Enterprises said North Decatur Square is expected to be open by spring 2018.

Whole Foods did not give an opening date for the Decatur store, but said as many as 10 could be opened in 2017.

"The 365 by Whole Foods concept will be a great fit for this new, growing retail corridor in the north end of Decatur," Jeff Garrison, a partner at S.J. Collins said. "Close to downtown Atlanta, this location is ideal for shoppers looking for good, healthy and convenient food options that the grocery store will provide, along with several other chef-driven and fast-casual restaurants that we expect will fill North Decatur Square."

(Photo courtesy Whole Foods)