Tops store remodel adopts Oz theme

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Tops Friendly Markets on Tuesday has opened a remodeled store in Chittenango, N.Y. — home of "Wonderful Wizard of Oz" novelist Frank Baum — with a design inspired by scenes from Baum’s famous work.

Throughout the store, Tops shoppers will now see familiar characters and faces like the Cowardly Lion, Tin Man and Flying Monkeys mentioned in the now 115-year-old tale. In addition to the aesthetic improvements, customers will also enjoy upgraded produce and deli departments. An expanded natural and organic section was also added, offering Chittenango residents the opportunity to purchase healthier food options. The renovation represented $250,000 in improvements, the company said.

Pictured here, it took brains and courage to decorate the checkout stands like this. “Shoppers will soon find out that their Chittenango Tops is unlike any other grocery store,” according to Kathy Conners, store manager. “Along with our specially-themed store décor, we’re looking forward to offering our shoppers even more fresh foods and brands while saving them time and money.”

Not in Kansas anymore

A photo of the bakery department at the remodeled store features a scene from the Wizard of Oz.

In the Emerald City

Poppies on a vivid green background evoke Dorothy’s arrival in the Emerald City — and shoppers in the produce aisle.

Behind the curtain

Tops leaders and state and local officials preside over a ribbon cutting at the remodeled store. From left: John McCaffrey, Tops regional VP; Scott Brown, Tops district manager; Kathy Conners, Chittenango store manager; Frank Curci, Tops chairman and CEO; Ronny Goeler, Chittenango village mayor; Ray Halbritter, Oneida nation representative and CEO; and New York State Sen. Dave Valesky. More than $2,000 in donations was also presented to local community-based organizations in Chittenango.

The little dog, too

Above a revamped deli department, Dorothy, the Scarecrow and Toto consider how to fill their basket.