Sarasota-Manatee market to get new Trader Joe’s

A new Trader Joe’s in the booming Sarasota-UTC area, with the actual location in Manatee County, plans to open its doors this year. 

The Monrovia, California-based grocer, which generates considerable social media buzz with new and potential new locations, confirmed the opening on its website May 5.

The location is 8473 Cooper Creek Blvd., in The Shoppes at University Town Center, the company says. The Benderson Development-owned shopping center is across the street from the Mall at University Town Center. (The mall is in Sarasota County, while across University Parkway, the The Shoppes is in Manatee County.) Other tenants in the The Shoppes include T.J. Maxx, Fresh Kitchen, Total Wine & More and JOANN Fabric and Crafts.

“We've consulted our maps and compass and have found a terrific location for a store in Sarasota,” a statement on Trader Joe’s website reads. “We are proud to be joining the neighborhood, and to continue our commitment to providing nourishment to the surrounding communities through our Neighborhood Shares program.”

Trader Joe’s operates 23 stores statewide, with one location in Sarasota off of South Tamiami Trail. It also locations in Tampa and St. Pete. 

Grocery store competition is heavy in the UTC area. Within 1 mile from the new Trader Joe's there's a Fresh Market, a Whole Foods and a Publix.