Whole Foods details what’s in store for ‘365’

Whole Foods Markets on Thursday confirmed a May 25 opening date for its 365 small-store concept in Los Angeles, and detailed features including a self-service tea bar, a vegan fast-casual restaurant, on-line ordering through Instacart and custom created apparel for its workers.

The Austin, Texas-based retailer described 365 as a “quality-meets-value” interpretation of its traditional store with a curated product selection that adheres to the standards of its parent brand “in an environment that’s fun and convenient for shoppers.”

Whole Foods is opening its first 365 store in Los Angeles.

Whole Foods is opening its first 365 store on May 25 in Los Angeles.

The 30,000-square-foot store in the Silver Lake neighborhood of Los Angeles will host several “Friends of 365” through partnerships with the vegan fast-casual restaurant By Chloe, as well as Allegro Coffee Co. and teaBOT, a new retail platform that provides custom grab-and-go tea in under 30 seconds, the company said.

Friends of 365 is an opportunity for innovative businesses and entrepreneurs that align with the mission and quality standards of Whole Foods Market to establish their own independent retail spaces inside of 365 by Whole Foods Market stores.

Whole Foods has plans for at least 13 365 stores.

Allegro will expand its coffee experience with a craft brew bar, serving customers hot coffee, cold beer and a selection of food items. Toronto-based startup teaBOT will install an efficient self-serve kiosk, allowing customers to personalize tea by mixing up to three of 18 different teas and herbal ingredients. By Chloe will offer guests a diverse menu of plant-based foods, including burgers, salads, market specials, pastas and sweets, that can be enjoyed in the restaurant, taken to-go or to a communal dine-in experience elsewhere in the store, the company said.

“With each store, we’re looking to curate a unique experience. Allegro’s craft brew bar will provide a casual place for Silver Lake residents to relax before or after they shop, while teaBOT’s unique service will offer a quick, yet deeply personalized tea-making experience,” Jeff Turnas, president of 365 by Whole Foods Market, said in a statement. “We’ve really dedicated ourselves to partnering with like-minded companies that are doing new and interesting things in their respective field to bring a truly unique shopping experience that complements our thoughtfully curated selection of foods.”

The company said it will offer online ordering and delivery services through Instacart. It selected sustainable casual goods purveyor Loomstate to custom design team member apparel for its stores. Loomstate was chosen for its contemporary looks, sustainable practices and commitment to organic products, 365 said.