Clearview Co-op officially opened its brand-new grocery store in Ste. Anne on Friday, drawing large crowds for the grand opening celebration. The full-service store is Clearview’s flagship location and marks a significant milestone for the community where the company originally began as Ste. Anne Co-op.
Henry Nickel, who retired in March 2024 after 46 years with the company, attended the opening which happened to be on his 70th birthday.
“It’s very exciting to see something that I had a vision for,” said Nickel. “The town was very supportive, and I knew it would be well supported because of the excitement in the community.”
The new store has also provided a boost to the local economy, adding approximately 50 new jobs. Clearview Co-op’s Gavin Walls, senior manager of the food division, said the store was designed to meet the needs of the community.
“Every day I see customers having conversations like they’re at home and it really makes my heart warm,” said Walls.
The event included a barbecue, children’s activities, free samples and prize giveaways, with proceeds supporting local charities.
-With files from Corny Rempel.