Whole Foods to Hit Parsippany By 2015

Since word was released last week that a , many residents have reacted with excitement. That joy will have to be tempered: The store likely won't open until 2014 or 2015, according to a company spokesperson.

Michael Sinatra told Patch that lease papers have been signed for Whole Foods to rent about 40,000 square feet in a complex that will be constructed on Route 46 between Waterview Boulevard and Intervale Road, where woods now stand.

"We're thrilled to be coming to Parsippany," Sinatra said. "I am from the area and with Mountain Lakes and Denville nearby, we know this will be a great location."

While a lease agreement has been struck for the yet-to-be-erected building, the project is in the process of obtaining building permits, Sinatra said, adding that the eventual market site should be roughly the size of the Whole Foods in Madison, "though it will feel larger."

The spokesperson said that Whole Foods Market is very selective about where it places its stores.

Asked why Parsippany was chosen as its newest location, Sinatra explained that the company only opens two or three new stores each year.

"We are a growing company, but we don't want to grow too fast in any given area.," he said. "But we know Parsippany would be a great high-traffic area."

And Sinatra said he believes Whole Foods Market would be good for the township.

"We only sell the highest quality natural and organic foods," he said. "You get the ability to shop without worrying about the ingredients in what you're buying.

"We have a commitment to local products, so customers will see produce from farms in Northern New Jersey," Sinatra continued. "Whether it's pickles or cheese, we really try to focus on local products. And we provide a level of customer service that is meant to ensure that customers have a great experience."

He added that Whole Foods also has selections for customers dealing with special diets.

"Whether you need gluten-free foods, or if you're a vegan, a pescatarian or a vegetarian, we want you to have a solid experience in our stores so that you will  come back time and time again."

As to when we will see a Parsippany Whole Foods open its doors, Sinatra said there is no exact date at this time.

"It's a new construction, so it will be a little bit," he said, noting that the store's opening will come no earlier than 2014 and may take until 2015. As far as the exact timing, we won't know that until we get closer to it.

"But we have signed the lease and we are committed to the project."