Nanuet resident Hank Smith would like to see a Trader Joe’s in Rockland. He usually drives to Westwood or Paramus in New Jersey to buy a grocery store. While he feels Nanuet already has many stores, he says a Trader Joe’s would be a welcome addition.
But the question remains: will they or won’t they?
A recent news report in which Clarkstown Supervisor George Hoehmann stated he was in negotiations with Trader Joe’s for a location in Nanuet renewed excitement among Rocklanders. However, Hoehmann told the USA Today Network New York that this was a “misprint.” (The publication has since retracted the statement.)
Clarkstown city supervisor ‘encouraged’ by trader Joe’s interest
But the hopeful Rocklanders still responded within hours with more than 50 comments on one social media post. Petitions and requests galore have asked the supermarket chain to set up shop in the province.
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Hoehmann said he continues to engage TJ’s to consider multiple locations in the city. “We are actively trying to get Trader Joe’s here and are encouraged because they have some interest in Clarkstown,” Hoehmann said Tuesday.
According to Nakia Rohde, Trader Joe’s public relations manager, the company is always “actively engaging with hundreds of neighborhoods across the country” as they hope to “open more new neighborhood stores every year.”
For some, Trader Joe’s has a cult following, with many Rockland residents traveling to Jersey to shop. Located in Yorktown, Westchester County, this store is an example of what shoppers can find IF — and it’s a big if — Trader Joe’s ever opens in Rockland County.
Rockland resident: ‘They would get all my business’
Several Rockland residents voiced their support.
Adam Epstein is one of those who drives 30 minutes each way to shop at Trader Joe’s in New Jersey. “If they lived in Nyack, I would shop there regularly,” he said. “And they would get all my business.”
Ditto for Tappan’s Leah DeCourcey, who said their innovative products and affordable prices would change Rockland’s grocery game. “Even in my twenties it is exciting to be able to do good shopping without damaging my wallet.”
“It’s definitely a Nyack crop,” added Nyack resident Ellyn Hament. “If there was one around, my foodie life would be complete.”
Trader Joe’s is a beloved restaurant for many in Westchester and Bergen counties, but unfortunately not yet in Rockland. This is located in Hartsdale.
Jeanne Muchnick covers food and dining. Click here for her most recent articles and follow her latest food adventures on Instagram @jeannemuchnick or via the lohudfood newsletter.
This article originally appeared in Rockland/Westchester Journal News: Rockland County NY pushes for first Trader Joe’s store
