THE transition of Hastings Co-op’s IGA supermarkets to Ritchies is now complete, with the changeover to be celebrated through a family fun day and the continuation of community grants.
The supermarket sale means there will now be Ritchies IGA stores at Sovereign Place, Wauchope, Timbertown and in Gordon Street Port Macquarie.
They will continue to stock local produce while existing loyalty schemes and the Community Benefits Program will be extended to the four new stores.
The community program is a funding opportunity for schools, charities, clubs and sporting and arts groups.
Previous grant recipients have included the oncology unit at Port Macquarie Base Hospital, The Koala Hospital, Marine Rescue, and The Lions Club.
“I am proud to work with Australia’s largest independent retailers in bringing all these amazing benefits to the Hastings Region,” Community Development Manager Tim Walker told News Of The Area.
The stores have launched a promotion supported by the Miedecke Motor Group, while this Saturday’s family fun day, 10 May, will be at the Sovereign Hill store from 10am.
There will be tastings of a wide range of local produce as well as face painting for the kids and a display of the Sancrox Rural Fire Brigade fire fighting truck.
By Bill HARROW
