After months of construction that expanded the store by 12,000 square feet, the Gray Hannaford location has opened the additional area to the public.
The expansion was announced in early 2025, with construction beginning later that year and continuing until June 2026.
John Fifield, director of operations at Hannaford, said the expansion allowed the store to highlight the variety of options available, as well as the most convenient items. Additions include a second entrance to the building, expanded self-checkout options, an expanded parking lot, as well as an in-store pharmacy with private immunization rooms.
The bulk of the shopping space was devoted to produce items, and Fifield said the addition of pre-cut fruit was a “pride point.”
“Everyone else gets a pin for their 40 years, but I get a department,” joked Produce Manager Bill Mannette.
Mannette said, while he has had to hire more associates to staff the expanded store, having more space has made his job easier. Citing the rapid growth of Gray and surrounding towns in recent years, Mannette said it made sense for the store to undergo a major expansion.
Hannaford is also offering several fresh-food options, including deli meat, pizza, and sushi, all produced entirely in-store, the latter through a partnership with Wagō Sushi. For customers who are not interested in waiting for service, the service stations have grab-and-go options, where customers can buy prepared meals.
Fifield also talked about Hannaford’s commitment to local and environmental causes. He said all of the cases in the store had been converted to next-generation refrigerants that reduce carbon emissions, while the former gas-powered ovens have been converted to electrical, energy-efficient appliances. The store also highlights Maine-based producers in every department.
The store, he said, also has a strong relationship with the community, donating thousands of pounds of food each year, as well as $15,000 in funds to Gray Community Food Pantry.
Reception from customers to the expansion was mostly positive. Marie Deraspe said that, although it took her a while to find the items she needed in the expanded store, she would quickly get used to it. Meanwhile, a resident, who identified herself as Linda A., said she was glad items were finally “growing roots” in one location, after constant movement during construction.