Gelson's Markets, one of California's premier supermarket chains, is thrilled to open its first San Diego-area store in Del Mar located at 2707 Via De La Valle.

"We're very excited to be opening our first San Diego location," says Rob McDougall, Gelson's President & CEO. "I believe we will prove ourselves beneficial to the community by providing premium-quality merchandise and exceptional customer service, while also re-employing the dedicated workforce that was subject to the Haggen crisis."

Gelson's remodeled the existing store which now features new salad, hot foods and antipasti bars; a carving cart within the service deli; wellness set; and an enhanced juice and cut fruits counter.  The store also features upgraded check stands and a customer service desk to facilitate the company's signature service offerings.

The supermarket chain, long revered by chefs, celebrities and foodies in Los Angeles and Orange County, purchased three locations in San Diego from Haggen after the chain filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in late 2015. A fast re-opening with a few essential improvements was a priority in order to re-employ existing Haggen associates, some of whom have worked at the location for many years under previous ownership. An extensive remodeling is slated later in 2016.

Gelson's is also on track to open new stores in Carlsbad in February and Pacific Beach in late March.

Founded in 1951, Gelson's currently operates 18 full-service specialty grocery stores in Southern California.  Each Gelson's Market features the full amenities of a traditional supermarket, with the local flavor of a neighborhood market. For more information about Gelson's, please visit www.gelsons.com.