Whole Foods opening in Englewood this fall

CHICAGO (FOX 32 News) - A new store means jobs, healthier food options and opportunities for small business owners on the South Side.

Whole Foods is set to open in Englewood this September and the company has said it will hire 100 people from the community.

Construction is underway at 63rd and Halsted, and it’s a welcome addition to the community that often struggles with gangs and violence.

The 18,000 square foot store will fill a void in the heart of Englewood and will offer mostly the same products that are offered at other stores. Residents were asked what they would like to see on the shelves and they asked for products in bulk and a wine selection.

Residents said Whole Foods will fill a void in Englewood.

“There's not a lot of grocery stores. There's an Aldi's two blocks over and that's it,” said Russell Williams.

The new store will also carry local products like cookies from Laine's Bakeshop. Owner Rachel Bernier-Green is from the South Side and says it's a dream come true: her products in her community.

“It's still kind of surreal walking into our stores, seeing our products on the shelves,” said Bernier-Green, who has products in other Whole Foods locations.

The same shopping center will house other businesses like coffee shops and restaurants.