Thousands of customers packed into Ocala’s first Sprouts during the grocery store’s grand opening celebration on Friday.
On Friday, July 11, officials held a ribbon cutting for the new store, doling out a series of promotions in the process. Among those promotions was free, reusable bags to the first 200 in-store shoppers on Friday and Saturday, according to a statement from the company.
The first 400 guests on Friday also received a free, long-stem rose from Falcon Farms Floral.
The company says it is also giving shoppers 20% off their purchase over the grand opening weekend when they text “Ocala” to 777-688 and scan their app account barcode at checkout. Only one discount may be redeemed per Sprouts account per day, with a $20 maximum discount.
Founded in 2002, Sprouts locations are known for their selection of fresh, organic foods and produce.
The new location in Ocala is no exception, with “responsibly sourced” seafood and premium meats, organically grown fruits and vegetables, and fresh prepared foods.
Located at 8430 SW Highway 200, within the new Corta Commons shopping development, the new establishment will be joined by a Chipotle, a Tropical Smoothie, and a Mattress Firm.
The 23,256-square-foot retail building that houses the city’s first Sprouts was recently listed for sale for just over $11.7 million. According to a listing from Ladt Patel Investment Advisors, the property comes with a 15-year lease with the grocer.
The site was originally approved for the construction of the commercial plaza and residential townhomes just over a year ago. The final master plan for the property was approved in August 2024.
There are currently over 460 Sprouts locations in operation across the country. That includes 56 locations in Florida. In addition to the new location in Ocala, the company plans to open new locations in Pennsylvania (July 25), Maryland (August 1), Texas (August 8), and multiple other states over the next two months, according to its website.
Sprouts Farmers Market in Ocala is open seven days a week, from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.
UPDATE: This story originally stated that the new Sprouts is located in Ocala. It is located in unincorporated Marion County, along State Road 200.