St. Johns County Adding First BJ’s Wholesale Club to Community

St. Johns County Welcomes New BJ’s Wholesale Club

St. Johns County is on the brink of welcoming its first BJ’s Wholesale Club, a large-scale retailer promising to enjoy a significant spot in the community. Located at 124 Beachwalk Blvd, this new warehouse store is set to open its doors shortly, as preparations continue with shelves stocked and a dedicated staff ready to serve.

What BJ’s Offers

The BJ’s Wholesale Club spans approximately 100,000 square feet, providing a variety of goods ranging from diapers and children’s toys to fresh-baked goods and discounted coffee from well-known brands. This store is designed to cater to local families and individuals, offering an extensive selection of grocery items that shoppers typically seek.

“Our members save up to 25% off grocery store prices every day,” said Kirk Saville, head of communications at BJ’s. He emphasized that the club experience is not just about bulk buying, stating, “We have large pack sizes for items, but our members often do their weekly grocery shopping here.” Alongside grocery staples, shoppers can expect to find a deli serving fresh-cut meats and cheeses, a bakery with customizable options, and much-loved half gallons of milk and bagged salads.

Workforce and Construction Details

The new BJ’s will employ around 100 people, creating jobs and boosting the local economy. The construction process for the store was completed in just six months, with St. Johns County issuing the building permit on June 27. The new facility came at a cost of $9 million, while additional permits for an on-site gas station with 24 pumps amounted to $946,000.

The foundation plans for the store were approved in May, with an expenditure of $4 million. This BJ’s location marks the 41st store in Florida, augmenting the existing four stores in Northeast Florida located in North Jacksonville, East Arlington, Baymeadows, and Orange Park. BJ’s also maintains a distribution center in West Jacksonville.

Expansion Plans

Looking ahead, Saville shared that BJ’s aims to continue its expansion strategy, targeting the opening of 11 new stores in fiscal year 2024, which concludes in January. The company is advancing towards establishing its footprint further across the United States, with plans already set for upcoming locations in Louisville, Kentucky, marking the company’s entry into its 21st state.

“The great thing about us is that we’re based on value,” Saville said. “Our customers know that and understand that about us.” As BJ’s prepares to open, local residents can look forward to the accessibility of household essentials at competitive prices along with the anticipated unique shopping experience.