Walmart in Vine City reopens today after fire closed it in 2022 – WSB-TV Channel 2

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The company said this is the first time in its history that a supercenter has been transformed into a neighborhood market, moving from a fully produce-focused model to a grocery-focused model.

At the reopening event, Walmart officials will be joined by various Atlanta leaders, including Mayor Andre Dickens.

In a statement released before the event, Dickens said the store would have a critical impact on Vince City.

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“When the store closed in Vine City, the community was upset and held a vigil. I immediately met with Walmart leadership and worked with them on various options to reopen the store and ensure that this community would not remain a food desert,” Dickens said before the reopening event. “I am grateful to Walmart for its commitment to reinvesting in our community and joining my administration’s efforts to improve the quality of life for our residents.”

Walmart company officials said reopening the building was a joint effort with city officials.

“When we committed to rebuilding this place, we knew how important it was to have meaningful discussions with local officials and community members to identify the most critical needs. Then we got to work building a store that met those necessities,” said Limark Tucker, senior manager and market manager overseeing Vine City Walmart. “We are grateful for the leadership of the City of Atlanta and Invest Atlanta. They have been very supportive of our efforts to provide these essential services to the community, and we will continue to work closely with them throughout this process.

A statement from officials says local Walmart officials, Dickens and other elected officials will comment on the impact of the store’s reopening before the ribbon-cutting ceremony. Event attendees will also be able to participate in photo opportunities.

In addition to the store itself, Walmart said it will invest in the community through $12,500 in donations to various charities, including the Community Food Bank of Atlanta ($2,000), HOPE Atlanta ($2,000 ), the Warrior GMR Foundation ($2,500), Bearstrong, Inc. ($2,000), HEY Atlanta ($2,000), and Hands On Atlanta ($2,000).

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