By Jacob Senstad
The famous grocery-store chain Trader Joe’s will open a new location in Coralville. The 58-year-old chain has spread to 40 states.
Trader Joe’s will be the newest addition to the Iowa River Landing and only the second franchise location in the state; the chain has 460 locations nationwide.
Iowa River Landing is approximately three miles from the heart of the University of Iowa campus. Trader Joe’s competitors, such as Walmart and Fareway, are a similar distance away, but the new location may be more convenient to travel to than the other stores.
“There is a Cambus, the one that runs to the research park,” said Kelly Hayworth, the city administrator of Coralville. “There’s a stop adjacent to the Trader Joe’s spot.”
There are 17 Trader Joe’s stores in Illinois, which means a familiar sight will come to town for students who hail from the state. According to the UI first-year student profile, 30 percent of students come from Illinois.
“I think it will be something students are used to,” Hayworth said. “Students come from those locations, and it will draw them”
Trader Joe’s is prevalent nationwide, but some students who haven’t regularly shopped at the store don’t have enthusiasm for the new grocery store.
“I have shopped at Trader Joe’s, but not very regularly,” UI sophomore Sean McGuire said. “I do not really plan on shopping there once it’s here, because Coralville isn’t in walking distance. There are cheaper options in terms of grocery stores, which is an important factor for a college student.”
Other students are thrilled to see the store head to town.
“I’m sure my family will be making stops,” said UI freshman Hannah Bluder. “My dad will be very happy.”
According to Trader Joe’s website, “Trader Joe’s made a commitment to eliminate artificial trans fats from all private label products along with artificial flavors, artificial preservatives & GMO ingredients.”
That commitment, met with its array of organic, gourmet, frozen foods, and imported and domestic alcoholic beverages, leads to a questions of prices. Organic and imported often means higher prices, which can be a deterrent for college students.
“Obviously, price is always an issue,” Hayworth said. “The quality is on par with grocery stores. [College students] can shop there and find something for them.”
Trader Joe’s website also iterates its philosophy regarding pricing. “Value is a concept we take very seriously. And by ‘value,’ we mean great everyday prices on all of our great products — no sales, no gimmicks, no clubs to join, no special cards to swipe.”
The combination of a familiar store name, with the convenience of a bus stop means Trader Joe’s has the potential to be the go-to grocery store for students on, and off campus.
“I’m excited, and Coralville isn’t that far for anyone who has a car,” said UI sophomore Gianna Hay.