By Paul Dunlop
PAKENHAM’S new BiLo supermarket opened its doors this week, promising a new ‘fresh and friendly’ option for shoppers.
The $2.2 million development is a key feature of the new village centre at the Lakeside at Pakenham estate.
It is expected to create up to 118 jobs for residents.
The staff opening celebration took place at 7.30 am on Tuesday.
Store manager John Famularo said he was very excited about the opportunities the new supermarket presented for his staff and the community.
“The new BiLo Pakenham reinforces our pledge to the area. Our customers will enter a fresh vibrant store where commitment to quality, friendly service and affordable prices are paramount,” Mr Famularo said.
Workers were feverishly putting the final touches on the development only hours before opening day.
Pakenham now has four supermarkets with BiLo joining the Safeway, Coles and IGA stores in the centre of town.
“We’re excited we can provide a shopping alternative to the local community, reinforcing our commitment to providing a wide range of products at really competitive prices, including our wellknown and regarded BiLo range of products,” Mr Famularo said.
The new BiLo Pakenham will feature an instore butchery, deli, selection of readytouse vegetables and salad mixes, dairy and a range of general merchandise.
Shopping hours will be Monday to Sunday, 7 am to 10 pm.
Also joining BiLo in the Lakeside village are a Brumbys bakery, liquor outlet and several other specialty shops.
BiLo Pakenham will host several activities to celebrate its opening, including instore competitions as well as children’s face painting and a community sausage sizzle on Saturday.