Kwik Star has officially opened its newest location in Knoxville, marking a significant milestone for the convenience store chain. The store commenced operations on January 8, 2024, and celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by President and CEO Scott Zietlow and local community members. This new facility aims to enhance the shopping experience for locals by offering a diverse range of products and services.
New Store Features and Offerings
The Knoxville Kwik Star includes various amenities designed to cater to customer needs. The store features hot food, grocery items, fresh produce, bakery selections, and a total of 20 fueling spots. Additionally, customers can take advantage of an on-site car wash. Zietlow emphasized the importance of these offerings during the opening event, highlighting how they contribute to the convenience and satisfaction of shoppers.
In an interview with local news outlet KNIA/KRLS after the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Zietlow elaborated on Kwik Star’s commitment to providing high-quality products. “We carry national brands for sure, but we have many of our own brands,” he stated. “With all the production that we do, that makes a huge difference for us. Being able to have control of our own delivery system creates a value chain that is very significant and important.” He noted that this level of vertical integration is a competitive advantage, allowing Kwik Star to deliver products more efficiently than many competitors.
Community Engagement and Support
Kwik Star’s commitment to community engagement was also evident during the opening ceremony. The company made a donation of $1,000 each to the Knoxville Fire Department and the Knoxville Police Department, reinforcing its dedication to supporting local services. Such initiatives underscore the chain’s goal of being an active participant in the community it serves.
The opening of the Knoxville location is part of Kwik Star’s broader strategy to expand its footprint across the region while maintaining a focus on quality and community involvement. As the company continues to grow, Zietlow’s leadership remains pivotal in navigating the challenges of the retail landscape and ensuring that Kwik Star remains a trusted name in convenience shopping.
