FoodMaxx plans Nov. opening in Carson City

Two regional Save Mart stores transitioning to the FoodMaxx label have faced delays due to the need of extensive remodeling.

The Save Mart stores in Carson City on Highway 50 East and in Sparks at Prater and North McCarran closed in March with an expectation of reopening as FoodMaxx stores by the end of the summer, which has now been extended to mid-November.

“These are brand news stores,” said Nannette Miranda, public affairs manager for Save Mart, which also owns FoodMaxx and the Lucky’s grocery chain. “The FoodMaxx brand is different from Save Mart.”

The new stores will be the first FoodMaxx stores in the region. Currently, 52 stores operate in California.

FoodMaxx began as a warehouse store and evolved into a traditional grocery story but retains a warehouse style and low pricing, Miranda said.

Because of the differences in the Save Mart and FoodMaxx brands, more extensive permitting was required for the transition, which requires major remodeling.

According to the City of Sparks, the company was issued quick start permits that allowed it to get started initially before it received its full building permits.

“We have had to do some hand holding and have asked they revise certain things on their plans that were incorrect,” Adam Mayberry, Sparks community and government affairs manager, said in an email exchange, adding there was nothing insurmountable.

“We are now fully permitted,” Miranda said, and construction is underway.

A grand opening for the Carson City store is planned for Tuesday, Nov. 15 and at the Sparks store on Wednesday, Nov. 16.

With construction in full swing and opening dates set, the company is gearing up to start interviewing for the 70 to 80 positions needed at each of the two stores, Miranda said. That will begin in early October.

When the stores closed, staff was offered positions at other area Save Mart stores with openings or the chance to apply for positions at the new FoodMaxx stores. Miranda acknowledged more time had elapsed than expected and many have probably already found jobs.