COEUR D'ALENE, Idaho — The day is nearly here! The Trader Joe’s in Coeur d’Alene will officially open on Tuesday, November 12!
The national grocer announced earlier this year it was coming to Coeur d’Alene. It will be at the longtime home of Runge’s Furniture, which is undergoing renovations. Trader Joe's will take over most of the space, while Runge's, which is downsizing, will maintain a smaller presence just off Fourth Street.
The store will be at 303. E. Spokane and the project is valued at $2.7 million.
A spokesperson for the store said they are in the process of hiring more than 60 people.
Nakia Rohde, public relations manager for the store, said crew members will make around $16-$22 an hour with benefits.
“Everyone does everything,” she said. “A little bit of checking, stocking. They work as a team to get everything done that can be done in a grocery store in a day.”
Advancement opportunities to “mates,” or assistant managers, are available, with 80% of such promotions coming from store crew members. Store managers are referred to as “captains.”
Linda Coppess, president and CEO of the Coeur d'Alene Regional Chamber, said the arrival of Trader Joe's "marks a significant milestone for our community.
"Trader Joe's brings not only exceptional products at the best everyday prices, but also a commitment to fostering vibrant local economies by providing solid jobs and tax revenue," she wrote in an email. "Their neighborhood environment, fun and inviting brand will not only enhance our shopping experience, providing an additional choice for residents but it will also attract visitors, further solidifying Coeur d'Alene as a destination for both business and pleasure. As we continue to focus on responsible growth, Trader Joe's aligns nicely with our vision of promoting business vitality while preserving the unique charm of our beautiful city."
Trader Joe's has two stores in Spokane and two in Idaho, in Boise and Meridian. This will be its first in North Idaho.