Fresh Thyme debuts farmers market-style store

MT. PROSPECT, Ill. — A new farmers market-style specialty grocer emphasizing organic foods and produce at value prices made its debut in Mt. Prospect, Ill., in April.

Designed by api(+), Tampa, the store is meant to be simple and easy to navigate. Such design elements and materials as low-profile fixtures, cedar planking and reclaimed barn siding are woven into the store to reflect a traditional farmers market.

With former Sunflower Farmers Market CEO Chris Sherrell at the helm, the grocer’s signature offering is an extensive produce department with organic and local fruits and vegetables.

Following its debut in April, the company went on to open six additional locations, with footprints averaging between 24,000 and 28,000 sq. ft. A total 60 stores are planned throughout the Midwest by 2019.