Yellow Banana has announced the opening of the first of six Save A Lot stores after extended delays. The Company was under pressure from both residents and the City of Chicago that advanced $14 million in subsidies and provided tax concessions amounting to a total of $26 million. Yellow Banana was obliged to open six stores within a two-year period. Renovations of premises included new air conditioning systems, cold rooms, lighting, flooring and fixtures.

Joe Canfield, CEO of Yellow Banana, stated, “We are proud to take steps to re-introduce the Save A Lot brand to Chicago by reopening our stores.  I am confident that the investment made to our remodel and upgrade will pay off for shoppers.”

Attempts to provide residents of so-called food deserts with grocery stores have been largely unsuccessful due to theft and crime.  The City of Chicago has an investment in the success of the Save A Lot stores and accordingly, should provide security.  Communities served by the stores have an obligation to contribute to their viability through exercising pressure on individuals within their neighborhoods who engage in antisocial activities.