Niemann's concept focuses on 'elevated customer service,' company says

CHAMPAIGN — A grocery at 2901 W. Kirby Ave. is the latest County Market to be converted to a concept that, according to Niemann Foods, puts a greater emphasis on customer service.

Spokesman Gerry Kettler with Niemann Foods, the owner of County Market grocery stores, said the location is the third County Market location to be rebranded to a Niemann's after Quincy and Mattoon.

He explained that, while the name harkens back to the company's roots, this is a new concept with a "renewed focus" on customer service.

"So we'll be maintaining all the great pricing that our customers are used to with County Market, but they'll experience elevated customer service, such as being offered, 'Hey, can we take your groceries to your car?'" he said. "And we're embracing special orders."

The business is also prioritizing meals that are ready to go from the store to the dinner table.

"We've kept the best of what we were, and we've added to it," Kettler said.

When asked if the company is planning to convert any other County Market locations, he replied that he is unsure if there is a timeline and added that they're taking things one step at at time. Harvest Market stores will not be rebranded, he said.

In Champaign, the changes include a total remodel of the store, upgrades to the liquor department, greater variety in the produce section, and "complete retraining" for employees, Kettler said.

"We've added a great deal of variety through the store too," he said. "This isn't just paint. We've re-looked at every single aisle to say, 'Is this what consumers are wanting to purchase now?'"

Additionally, the business is still making some adjustments leading up to a "grand opening" next month.

According to the Champaign County Chamber of Commerce, there will be a ribbon cutting ceremony at noon on Oct. 9 to celebrate the changes.