Wal-Mart Stores Inc. has confirmed Wednesday that it will open a third location in Simi Valley. The Bentonville, Ark. retailer has agreed to open one of its Neighborhood Markets at 2204 Tapo St. in the Santa Susana Plaza. The company already operates two locations in the city, a large superstore on Cochran Drive near First Street and a Discount Store on Cochran near Sycamore Drive. Rachel Wall, the company’s senior manager of community affairs, told the Business Journal that the location will occupy 32,000 square feet where a Vons supermarket closed nearly 10 years ago. “We think a Walmart Neighborhood Market in Simi Valley can be part of the solution for residents who want more convenient access to fresh, affordable food or more job opportunities close to home,” she said, in an email. The location will feature a self-service deli, bakery, prepared meal options, in addition to a pharmacy and photo processing center. Wall said the store will employ about 65 people and is expected to open next year. Santa Susana Plaza is anchored by a 24 Hour Fitness, 99 Cents Store and JoAnn Fabrics. Assistant City Manager Brian Gabler said the opening will create economic opportunities in Simi Valley. “It will increase daily traffic and help the plaza attract other tenants. There’s a lot of upside to having them in there,” he said.
