MODESTO, Calif. — Save Mart marked the grand reopening of its extensively refreshed store at Oakdale Road and Scenic Drive in Modesto with a celebration that underscored its deep roots in the community and its renewed focus on delivering everyday value.
The regional grocery chain, part of The Save Mart Companies, kicked off the event with a ceremonial ribbon cutting, attended by local dignitaries, store leadership, and community groups. The reopening highlighted a major store transformation centered on enhanced offerings and the company’s new Lower Prices initiative, which slashes prices on thousands of essential grocery items.
“The grand reopening of Save Mart at Oakdale & Scenic reinforces our more than 70-year commitment to Modesto and the Central Valley,” said Donovan Ford, senior vice president and chief operations officer for The Save Mart Companies. “Every investment in our stores is an investment in our community.”
The celebratory atmosphere included a “Save Mart + Local Heroes” charity Supermarket Sweeps challenge between Modesto’s Police and Fire departments. The Fire Department edged out a narrow win, securing a $2,000 donation for the Modesto City Firefighters Association Widows and Orphans Fund. The Police Department received $1,500 for the Healthy Room Project. The event also resulted in a $4,140 food donation to the Food Initiative of Greater Stanislaus, presented on behalf of Modesto Mayor Sue Zwahlen.
Beyond the festivities, Save Mart presented over $9,000 in charitable donations to local schools and nonprofits, including Sierra Vista Child & Family Services, HAVEN, and the Modesto Downtown Streets Team.
To further celebrate its Modesto heritage, Save Mart commissioned local artist Hocus to create a “Modesto in Motion” mural inside the store. The work, which showcases the city’s car culture and agricultural roots, will continue live through May 4.
Shoppers were also invited to participate in a naming contest for Save Mart’s classic Parade Go-Kart van, on display in-store. Finalists will be selected and posted on Instagram for community voting, with the winning name revealed later in May.
The remodeled store features upgraded departments and expanded selections, including more than 600 new wines, spirits, and beers, 275 specialty cheeses, and an in-store florist offering custom arrangements. Daily fresh-cut produce and an enhanced bakery highlight the store’s emphasis on freshness and quality.
Central to the store’s transformation is Save Mart’s Lower Prices initiative. From produce and meats to pantry staples and household items, the program is designed to help families stretch their budgets during challenging economic times.
In addition, the store now includes a dedicated curbside pickup area and continues to offer home delivery through Instacart, DoorDash, Grubhub, and Uber Eats. EBT SNAP payments are accepted both in-store and online.
Wednesday’s reopening drew participation from city and county officials, including representatives from the California State Assembly, the Modesto City Council, and local chambers of commerce.
The event reflects Save Mart’s broader effort to reinvest in its hometown while reinforcing its value leadership across California. “Modesto is our hometown, and our commitment to this city has never been stronger,” Ford said.
The celebration continues through May 4 with product tastings, mural completion, and the continuation of the Go-Kart naming contest.
