It’s stocked with produce, baked goods, fine cheeses and meats, but the brand-new Whole Foods Market in Columbia aspires to be more than a grocery store.
Instead, says store team leader Svetlana Piskounova, the upscale shop aims to be “a gathering place on Lake Kittamaqundi.” One that happens to occupy a massive Frank Gehry-designed building that once housed the Rouse Company.
“Our approach to building stores around the individual community — its history, culture, passions and people — helps us contribute in more meaningful ways,” says Piskounova. “That’s especially true in such a unique location.”
What does that mean for customers at Howard County’s first (and only) Whole Foods? In addition to meeting all their organic, fair-trade, non-GMO desires, the market intends to be a good neighbor. The bulk sprouted mung beans are just a bonus.
10275 Little Patuxent Parkway, Columbia. 240-865-1827. Wholefoodsmarket.com.
