FreshChoice Epsom is now open!
- Date Published
- 30 November 2021
An experience created by locals, for locals
It’s been a long time coming but at last, the doors of the stunning FreshChoice Epsom are open and Chris Harris and Juliet Monaghan look forward to getting to know the community.
The husband-and-wife co-owners are inquisitive foodies, enjoy a good wine, and FreshChoice is the perfect place for them to share their enthusiasm and experience with the locals.
“We love travelling – when we can and our new store is influenced by the contemporary European concept of integrating supermarkets with farmers’ markets,” says Juliet.
“A marketplace is the hub of the community where people catch up with friends and neighbours while they shop. That’s our vision for FreshChoice Epsom.”
Chris and Juliet have decades of experience in the grocery business and opening a new store has given them an exciting opportunity to use the latest innovations.
Since opening FreshChoice Half Moon Bay in 2012, their reputation has thrived. It has become a supermarket where shoppers know the couple and the staff by name, and they know they can find unique gourmet items as well as everyday essentials.
Pushing the boundaries to create inspired supermarket shopping
“The beauty of FreshChoice is that it gives us the freedom to explore innovative and delicious local food and drinks, and our customers can have fun with their weekly shop,” Juliet explains.
FreshChoice Epsom has all the regular grocery items at competitive prices, so you’ll find your everyday breakfast cereal and toothpaste.
You’ll also find an extensive range of free-from foods for health and dietary requirements, gourmet ranges from local and international food producers and of course, a bounty of fresh foods.
“We’ve pushed the boundaries at Epsom. There are more than 150 cheeses in our stunning cheesery, and a deli where shoppers can request anything from one slice of ham, glazed by our own chefs, to take-home dishes for each meal of the day.”
Fresh is best and then we age it
When planning the store, the couple explored ideas with fresh food, keen to offer people something unique that would enhance their home-cooking experience.
“We found the best cases on the planet for ageing meat and our in-store butchers will help you select your preferred cut, put your name on it and age it for you. Your pre-paid cut will be ready for you when you want it – even one steak at a time if that’s what you want.”
Of course, fish is always best fresh and FreshChoice Epsom has a dedicated wet-fish bar with whole and filleted fish, and a filleting service.
“Our fish is delivered from local fishermen and our specialist fish monger has plenty of cooking and serving tips, when you want to try something new.”
Artisan breads for all
FreshChoice shoppers are spoilt for choice with the in-store the range of artisan breads from talented local bakers.
“For many years we have supplied products from these bakers for our Half Moon Bay customers and we have learnt what people really like,” says Juliet.
“We know there is big demand for keto, gluten-free, paleo and dairy-free breads and bakery items and we have an extensive range, so no one misses out. You’ll even find Christmas bakery items for free-from diets.”
Did we mention craft beers and regional wines?
New Zealand produces exceptional craft beers and wines, and FreshChoice Epsom couldn’t open a flagship store without including a massive range.
“We have an in-store sommelier, who has 25 years of experience in a respected private club. During peak shopping times, customers can tap into his knowledge and explore matching wines with foods.”
FreshChoice Epsom will start a wine club to showcase new arrivals from regions such as Waiheke, Central Otago and Marlborough, in addition to beautiful wines of Spain, France, Italy, Australia and the USA.
Customers will also have plenty of opportunities to taste-test craft beers.
Committed to helping people and the planet
For many years FreshChoice has operated a community grant programme, and Chris and Julietthe entire team loves making a difference with local community organisations.
Ask the checkout operators for an application form for your next school fundraiser, sports club event or any not-for-profit group that needs a hand and FreshChoice Epsom will see if it can help.
Throughout the next two months we are giving away five gift baskets as fundraisers for local charities so get your applications in now.
Chris and Juliet have a long-standing commitment to treading lightly on the planet.
The new Epsom store has state-of-the-art refrigeration technology that massively reduces carbon emissions. Check out the stickers on the in-store fridges to learn more.
And, in the underground carpark plans are underway to install EV charging units that customers can use while shopping at FreshChoice Epsom.
People make the difference
Chris and Juliet are the co-owners but what makes the real difference for customers are the smiles at the checkout, the willingness to help a customer make a choice and knowing shoppers by name.
“We are a grocery store, but our staff aim to make supermarket shopping so much more than a transaction. Many of our team have come from our Half Moon Bay store and other local supermarkets. They are committed to changing the way people in Epsom experience grocery shopping.”
We look forward to meeting you soon.
