Chesapeake News

45 Years of Expertise in Grocery Store Construction

April 24, 2024 | By Chesapeake Contracting Group | 45th Anniversary

Chesapeake Contracting Group, with a rich history of grocery construction experience, is proud to celebrate its 45th year of excellence. Our journey into the market sector began with the construction of a Safeway store in Pikesville, MD in 1982. Since then, we have built more than 50 stores and collaborated with over nine distinguished grocery brands, including Harris Teeter, Giant, Sprouts Farmers Market, Fresh Market, Safeway, Shoppers, and more. This extensive experience underscores our deep understanding of the complexities unique to grocery store construction.

Grocery construction of a Sprouts, showing the produce department.

Chesapeake Contracting Group’s expertise in the grocery sector extends beyond construction to encompass highly coordinated efforts essential for a seamless project execution. With separate contracts for refrigeration packages and equipment through the client, our team coordinates plumbing and electrical work meticulously with their vendors. This collaborative approach ensures the smooth integration of essential systems while meeting client specifications.

Flexibility is a cornerstone of our operations, especially as fixture plans and store layouts tend to evolve in response to dynamic marketing strategies. We adeptly handle changes on the fly during construction, prioritizing adaptability without compromising on project timelines.

Grocery construction of a Harris Teeter, showing the dairy department.

Timing is paramount, due to grand openings and the coordination required for stocking the store. Approximately a month is allocated post-construction to ensure the store is fully operational, emphasizing our commitment to timely delivery. Attention to detail extends to finishes, with sealed or polished concrete floors being a standard choice. Protecting these finishes during the stocking phase is paramount, ensuring the store maintains its perfect appearance upon opening.

Navigating regulatory requirements, including stocking permits and health department concerns related to food preparation areas like bakeries, delis, and hot meal sections, is integral to the process. We address these challenges proactively to ensure there’s no delay in store opening.

Grocery construction of a Giant, showing the produce department.

Layout optimization is also a key focus, encompassing electric systems, refrigeration piping, and condensate drains. Our dedication to understanding and implementing client priorities, such as delivering on time, coordinating seamlessly with their vendors, and facilitating efficient access for stocking activities, underscores our relationship-focused approach.

Chesapeake Contracting Group’s contracting services in the grocery sector reflect our commitment to relationships, flexibility, and proactive project management. We pride ourselves on delivering exceptional results that meet and exceed our clients’ expectations, ensuring successful store openings that resonate with customers. We look forward to delivering even more grocery store builds in the next 45 years!

CLick here to view our grocery portfolio!

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