It was an exciting day for the people of Humboldt and area, which was clear from the crowds that came out.
The grand opening of the new Sobeys grocery store at the Quill Centre on the west side of the city was held on December 7.
"There were about 500 people at the grand opening," said owner Dave Doepker. "We had 250 gift cards to give away and we ran out about halfway through the line."
He was excited to see so many people out to see the new store first-hand.
"It was awesome," said Doepker. "I couldn't believe how many people came out. We had a lot of great comments about the new store... It was better than anticipated."
Since the store - formerly the Humboldt IGA - moved from the Geschaft Centre to a stand alone store under the Sobeys name in the Quill Centre on the west side of Humboldt, business has increased, said Doepker.
"It definitely has increased," said Doepker on Monday. "It has been good."
Doepker wasn't the only person excited about the grand opening. Martin Blair, the president of the West Humboldt Properties Limited, the company developing the Quill Centre, was also glad to see the store opening.
"It was an exciting day for us here at the Quill Centre," said Blair.
He explained the store will help give the people of Humboldt and area a new grocery shopping experience.
"It is a great day for the residents of Humboldt," said Blair. "A lot of effort went into building this store and it really shows."
Humboldt MLA Donna Harpauer and Deputy Mayor of Humboldt Leon Fleishhacker also voiced their appreciation of the new store.
"We are so grateful to the people of Humboldt for their support," said Doepker. "We look forward to serving the people in the community in the future."
