Farmer's MarketPlace Open for Business

Grayslake's newest grocery store is officially open for business.

After an unofficial, soft opening a couple of weeks ago, Farmer's MarketPlace is now celebrating its grand opening. Customers can even win prizes like a Weber grill and a mountain bike.

"It's very exciting," store owner Vicky Kouantas said of seeing the store open for customers. "And the most exciting thing is to hear the positive feedback from the people."

Kouantas said she's heard from customers that they like the ambiance and the cleanliness at Farmer's MarketPlace. 

The store took over the building that was previously occupied by Piggly Wiggly at the corner of Center Street and Atkinson Road. Piggly Wiggly closed in December 2012. 

Store manager John Partynski said he's heard from many customers that the store looks larger.

"That's just by design," said Partynski, adding that moving some things around—like offices—has created an "open shopping experience" for customers. "Nothing has moved in terms of walls."

He complimented Kouantas on the store's look, noting that "Vicky has taken her time to do the interior design." 

The store offers a large produce and deli section.

"It's an outstanding variety," said Partynski. He added that the store also plans to bring in locally-grown produce.

The deli features Boar's Head's top-of-the-line products, Partynski said. 

"We also bring an international flair," added Kouantas. There are imported meats, cheeses, liquors and canned goods, for example, from places like Greece, Poland and Bulgaria. 

Kouantas said the store will also offer an organic section.