ShopRite has been a staple in New Jersey for decades, providing high-quality groceries to families throughout the state. As 2025 draws nearer, Saker ShopRites, the operator of 39 supermarkets across Central Jersey and the Jersey Shore, is planning three major developments in Monmouth and Ocean counties. These changes aim to improve shopping experiences for residents, update aging stores, and replace older locations with modern, larger supermarkets.
In this article, we’ll explore these upcoming ShopRite projects: the Manalapan Crossing store, the Freehold Township renovation, and the Stafford location’s new supermarket. We’ll discuss each store’s specifics, expected features, and what they mean for the local communities.
Manalapan ShopRite: A Fresh Start on Route 33
Background on Manalapan’s Need for a New Supermarket
Manalapan, a growing community in Monmouth County, is set to receive a new ShopRite supermarket. For years, residents have voiced a need for a larger, more convenient grocery option on Route 33. With the closest ShopRite currently located in Freehold Township, the new store will offer greater accessibility to Manalapan residents and those living in nearby areas.
The Location: Manalapan Crossing Development
The proposed ShopRite will be situated within the Manalapan Crossing development. This village-style development will be located at the intersection of Route 33 and Millhurst Road. The site will feature a brand-new, 83,559-square-foot ShopRite supermarket. It will replace three previously approved retail and restaurant buildings that have not yet been developed.
Project Timeline and Hearing Process
The development of the Manalapan ShopRite is still in the early stages. A Planning Board hearing is expected to continue through 2025, as residents and officials weigh in on the project. Although some local residents, especially those from the nearby K. Hovnanian’s Four Seasons at Manalapan Crossing, have voiced opposition, the developer, Cardinale Enterprises, believes the area needs a major supermarket.
Benefits of the New ShopRite in Manalapan
The new supermarket will bring significant benefits to Manalapan, including:
- Convenience: A local ShopRite will reduce the need for long drives to nearby stores.
- Employment Opportunities: The store is expected to create dozens of jobs for local residents.
- Economic Growth: The new supermarket will attract shoppers from surrounding towns, boosting local businesses.
Freehold Township ShopRite: Renovation and Expansion of an Old Favorite
The Need for an Upgrade in Freehold
Freehold Township is home to one of ShopRite’s older locations, built in 1963. While this store has served the community well for decades, it’s time for a major update. The Freehold Township location is set to undergo a significant renovation and expansion, creating a modern shopping experience for the residents of Freehold and beyond.
Expansion Details: What’s Changing?
Once completed, the Freehold Township ShopRite will be 41% larger than its current 59,182-square-foot space, expanding to 86,500 square feet. The new design will also include a ShopRite Liquor Warehouse, offering customers a one-stop shopping experience for both groceries and alcohol.
The Redevelopment Plan and Timeline
The renovation plan has been in the works for several years, with township officials approving the project earlier this summer. The township is working closely with Saker ShopRites to address the challenges of redesigning the site. According to Freehold Township Mayor Anthony J. Ammiano, the redevelopment is moving forward smoothly, and the planning board expects to see an application by mid-year.
What the Renovation Means for the Community
This redevelopment will breathe new life into the South Freehold Shopping Center, which has been largely vacant for years. Some of the benefits include:
- Increased Square Footage: A larger, more spacious store will enhance the shopping experience for customers.
- New Job Opportunities: The expansion will likely lead to job openings in both retail and construction.
- Revitalization of the Area: The renovation will encourage more businesses to move into the area, boosting local commerce.
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Stafford ShopRite: A Major Overhaul of the Former Kmart
Stafford’s Current ShopRite Location and the Need for Change
The current ShopRite in Stafford is located at Stafford Square Mall, a 70,000-square-foot facility. While this store serves a good number of customers, it’s set to be replaced with a much larger store. In a bid to enhance the shopping experience, Saker ShopRites is proposing to transform the vacant Kmart store on Route 72 into a 120,000-square-foot ShopRite supermarket.
The Plan: New Store at Manahawkin Commons
Saker ShopRites has already purchased the Manahawkin Commons, which includes the former Kmart building. The redevelopment plans include converting the Kmart site into a 120,000-square-foot ShopRite, with an additional 18,000 square feet of retail space. The new store would be more than 70% larger than the current ShopRite in Stafford.
What’s in Store for Stafford Residents?
The new store will offer several advantages for Stafford residents:
- Increased Size: The larger store will feature an expanded selection of groceries, making it easier for customers to find everything they need.
- Convenient Location: The store will be located at Manahawkin Commons, which is more accessible than the current Stafford Square Mall location.
- Retail Space: The additional retail space will encourage more businesses to set up shop in the area, further benefiting the local economy.
Project Progress and Timeline
The proposal for the new Stafford ShopRite is still undergoing planning board hearings, with a decision expected in the new year. If approved, the new supermarket could be up and running by 2025.
Challenges and Opposition: Community Concerns
Resident Opposition in Manalapan
As mentioned earlier, some residents in Manalapan have voiced opposition to the proposed ShopRite at Manalapan Crossing. These concerns are mainly related to traffic congestion, noise, and the overall impact of the supermarket on the residential community.
Balancing Development with Community Needs
While the opposition is a natural part of any large development project, Saker ShopRites is working closely with local officials to ensure that the benefits of the new stores outweigh the potential drawbacks. Planning boards are considering various solutions to mitigate issues like traffic and parking, ensuring that the project moves forward smoothly.
The Bigger Picture: How These Changes Impact the Jersey Shore
Strengthening the Local Economy
With these new developments, ShopRite is investing in the local economy by creating jobs, attracting customers from neighboring towns, and revitalizing underutilized properties. This economic boost is expected to benefit not only the immediate communities but also surrounding areas.
Meeting the Needs of a Growing Population
As the Jersey Shore continues to grow, there’s a greater demand for retail services like supermarkets. These new developments will help meet the needs of a more diverse and larger population, making shopping easier and more convenient.
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Conclusion
In 2025, ShopRite’s expansion and renovation plans will undoubtedly transform the supermarket landscape along the Jersey Shore. From Manalapan to Freehold to Stafford, these new and upgraded stores will offer residents greater convenience, expanded shopping options, and new opportunities for employment. With careful planning and attention to community concerns, ShopRite’s developments are poised to create a positive impact on local economies while enhancing the shopping experience for families in Central and Southern New Jersey.
FAQs
When will the new ShopRite in Manalapan open?
The Manalapan ShopRite is still in the planning stages, with hearings expected to continue into 2025. If all goes according to plan, the store could open later that year.
What changes can we expect at the Freehold Township ShopRite?
The Freehold Township store will undergo a major renovation and expansion, increasing its size by 41% to 86,500 square feet. It will also feature a new ShopRite Liquor Warehouse.
How will the new ShopRite in Stafford benefit the community?
The new Stafford ShopRite will be significantly larger than the current one, offering an expanded grocery selection and additional retail space. It will be located in a more accessible area, making it easier for customers to shop.
Will there be new job opportunities with these ShopRite developments?
Yes, each new or renovated ShopRite store will create job opportunities for both retail employees and construction workers during the building phase.
Are there any concerns about traffic and congestion with these developments?
Yes, some residents have raised concerns about traffic, particularly in Manalapan. However, the developers are working closely with local officials to address these issues and ensure smooth development.