Norwalk's new Discount Drug Mart opening soon

NORWALK — As the name suggests, the business offers discounted prices — but its newest store won't offer any sort of reduction in size. Those representing Discount Drug Mart in Norwalk are getting ready to relocate the store from Cline Street to 80 Whittlesey Ave. Previously, the Whittlesey Avenue storefront served as a home to Giant Eagle, Tops Friendly Markets, Valu King Food Market and, most recently, Pat Catan's. This new space totals about 36,000 square feet, nearly doubling the Cline Street footprint at 21,000 square feet. Bruce Wasem, the regional store supervisor, expects the new Discount Drug Mart to open sometime in early August. "Everything is coming over into the new location, but there will be bigger and expanded selections," said Wasem, specifically referencing the pharmacy and beauty products. "What'll be new here is a deli, where you can get fresh meat and other products; and a large wine selection." Steve Ferris, the company's government and public affairs director for its corporate office, talked about Discount Drug Mart's commitment to Norwalk. "We have been in the community for a long time," Ferris said. "We wanted to continue to serve the residents in the community of Norwalk, and we wanted to bring a bigger and better store to the residents here. We will continue to provide them with value and high-end service." Discount Drug Mart also expects its current Norwalk staff, about 60 people, to come over in this transition. The company anticipates hiring additional workers for this bigger location. Wasem noted a grand opening celebration is planned for some time a few weeks after a grand opening occurs. "We hope people come, where they'll have an easier and better shopping experience here," Wasem said.