Trader Joe’s Considers Woodland Hills Store

By Julia M. Scott, Daily News, Los Angeles

Jan. 31–Rumors that a new Trader Joe’s is coming to Woodland Hills are only partly true.

The Monrovia-based chain of small grocery stores is “interested” in opening a store in Woodland Hills but will not confirm a specific location or opening date, said spokeswoman Alison Mochizuki.

“I don’t have a location confirmed at Woodland Hills at this time, however, we are interested in Woodland Hills,” Mochizuki said. “It’s just a great city, lots of foodies.”

Woodland Hills has a high concentration of residents and businesses that would be well-served by a Trader Joe’s, said Councilman Dennis Zine, whose district includes Woodland Hills.

The area is already served by a Vons, Ralphs, Albertsons, Whole Foods and a handful of independent markets.

“I think the community would definitely benefit since there is normally brisk business at Trader Joe’s,” Zine said. “The community thinks healthy, eats healthy and wants to shop at healthy locations.”

A Trader Joe’s at Westfield Topanga mall in Canoga Park closed November 2003.

It’s unclear where the grocer would move. The average size of a Trader Joe’s is between 10,000 and 15,000 square feet, Mochizuki said.

According to Aine, the Vons at Ventura Boulevard and Topanga Canyon is moving. However, a Vons spokesperson said they had not yet made a decision about the store.

THE DETAILS:

–What: Possible Trader Joe’s opening

–Where: Woodland Hills

–When: Unknown

–Nearest TJ’s locations: West Hills and Encino

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