‘A fresh market on steroids’: Expansive new grocery store opens in Vernon Hills

The newest grocery store in Vernon Hills opened to the public Wednesday with a huge selection meant to serve a diverse community.

With an emphasis on fresh produce and ethnic European offerings, Farmer's Best Market occupies an enormous space in the repurposed former Bed Bath & Beyond and adjacent space in the Marketplace At Vernon Hills shopping center, 413 N. Milwaukee Ave.

“We have everything the neighborhood wants and then some,” said owner Nick Merikas. “We’re like a fresh market on steroids.”

There was a good turnout despite the rain and, at 100,000 square feet, there was ample room to roam the aisles and explore the offerings.

“We cover all the demographics in the neighborhood because we’re big enough to do that,” Merikas added.

The Vernon Hills store is the third Farmer’s Best Market for the family-owned business and is much larger than those in Chicago and Northlake.

“We have a huge variety and there’s more coming,” added Merikas’ son, Daniel, who owns the Northlake store and was on hand for the grand opening. “We wanted to go for the international market. So far it’s great,”

A side selection of fresh produce, large meat and produce departments, hot prepared foods, European bakery and a sushi station are among the offerings.

Sheryl Mann of Mundelein and Peggy Franks of Vernon Hills were among the shoppers. The two met as employees at Bed Bath & Beyond, stayed friends and made a point to attend the opening.

She came for fresh basil and dill but added produce and specialty items like imported Greek cheese to her cart.

“I spent $88 but it could have been a whole lot more,” she said. “It was a very nice experience.”

Faten Fisher came from Lincolnshire for the fresh produce and to support local business.

“I’m really excited to see what they have to offer,” she said. “It’s bright and it’s clean. It’s big.”

Nick Merikas said there are about 120 employees but he’s looking to hire about 80 more.

Andrew Jennings, Vernon Hills community development director, said the store’s size provides flexibility for operators, comfort for shoppers and fills a big gap in town.

“It’s a massive space,” he said. “From the village’s standpoint, to be able to fill a big box like this and bring back marketplace shopping is fantastic.”