Fairway Eyeing Sixth Ave In Trader Joe's, Whole Foods Territory

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According to the Post, Fairway is thinking about saddling up to 766 Sixth Avenue for its thirteenth location. The article explains that the deal hasn't been inked, but the space in question spans 23,000 square feet over two levels. This would make the New York City grocery chain neighbors with competitors Whole Foods and Trader Joe's, transforming the stretch into grocery Mecca.

Opening near these superstar grocers could be a new challenge for Fairway. In December, the behemoth chain opened a location in Kips Bay, where its neighbors are a multiplex, a handful of delis, and lots of apartment buildings—but absolutely no threatening grocery competition. The Red Hook location, set to re-open on March 1st after Sandy devastation, also serves in a neighborhood that is heavy on residents but not on supermarkets. Opening near Trader Joe's and Whole Foods would set the stage for major competition along the stretch of 23rd to 26th Streets.

It also could spark growth in the area for other businesses. "Fairway would help this residential neighborhood establish a greater retail corridor. It will link the techie corridor of Park and Madison Avenues to the tourists of Fifth Avenue and the residents of Sixth Avenue," says Faith Hope Consolo. "The area will soon fill in with restaurants and retail. Food comes first, and fashion follows food."
· Fairway puts a move on rivals [NY Post]
· Fairway Is Right on Track for Its Kips Bay Debut This Morning [Racked NY]
· Red Hook's Fairway Is Almost Ready to Reopen, Post-Sandy [Racked NY]