Grocery Outlet is a brand new grocer addition to the Cedar Fairmount neighborhood in Cleveland…read moreHeights. This business occupies the former Dave's Supermarket which was recently renovated. The store is franchise family-owned (now local to the community). This grocery store was a very welcome addition to the neighborhood. It had mixed reviews from the community. My personal option was that it was just alright. I didn't experience anything that would keep me coming back.
Layout: Grocery Outlet's layout is a lot more spacious than former Dave's. Specifically, the aisles are less closely spaced. There is sufficient space to roam. With that being said, the organization of the store seemed odd and hard to navigate. For instance, it took me a long time to find condiments (ketchup) which were separated away from the aisles.
Assortment: This was my first experience at any Grocery Outlet. It reminded me of a mix of Dollar General and Big Lots. Overall, the following can be found here: meats, produce, breads, beer, snacks, condiments, dairy, toiletries, cleaning supplies, bread, pet food, snacks, and random stuff such as bird houses. If you are loyal to major brands, you'll likely won't find them here. Most are discounted brands many of them also sold at Dollar Tree. Other customers recommended to check expiration dates due to many discounted products being almost expired. I didn't personally see any of these items.
The assortment didn't impress me at all. I couldn't buy everything I needed at this store because there were no major brand shampoos, pet foods, and toiletries. Those I've seen in the aisles were even more expensive than the competitors. Meats were mostly unrecognizable brands. Dairy section was extremely limited. Produce looked a little tarnished. Nothing particularly caught my eye in terms of price or quality.
My purchase: I initially stopped in for grocery shopping but also to grab something quick for dinner. I didn't find either. The store didn't have any prepared foods or even good frozen selections (most were off brand and contained large quantities). I purchased hot dog meat (off brand), hot dog buns, ketchup (Grocery Outlet brand), small watermelon container (was soggy), and 4 small waters. I paid $20 something. Hot dogs were just okay, cheap tasting. I received a free branded tote which was nice. Overall, I guess that the price was good.
Interesting find: The store has global foods aisle. It has foods from Asia and Latin America which is amazing.
Savings: Savings are clearly indicated next to many items (our v their price). Marketing collateral in the store indicates savings if you download their app.
Service: Service was average. The employees walking the checkout lines seemed apathetic. Lines moved quickly which was nice. Then again the store was almost empty on Sunday night.
Parking: Parking lot is available onsite. Entrance is accessible from the parking lot only (unlike the former Dave's).
I'm unlikely to become this store's frequent shopper despite living within walking distance. I feel that this store serves value-oriented families buying in bulk and non-committed to national brands. It doesn't well accommodate single people who are looking for quick prep options, small quantities, and high quality. I'll visit other stores in the area that better serve my personal needs.
