WORTHINGTON — When Des Moines, Iowa-based Hy-Vee expanded into Minnesota in 1969, Worthington was one of the communities it chose to open a store.
Fifty years later, business is still going strong.
Worthington Hy-Vee recently observed a "grand re-opening" for updates done on the facility, including Mia Pizza, The Diner and Starbucks Coffee. The new renovation makes this the third iteration of Hy-Vee since its 1969 construction.
Store Director DeWayne McIntyre noted that Hy-Vee focuses on hiring local labor for remodeling projects.
"We think it's important to do that," McIntyre said.
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Hy-Vee employs about 300 people at its Worthington location. Although the company motto boasts "A Helpful Smile in Every Aisle," McIntyre said "the customers are what makes that come to life. It's great to have that impact for 50 years.
"We want to be able to give back in the community that supports us," he added, noting that Hy-Vee makes charitable donations and contributes to community events.
To celebrate its semicentennial, Hy-Vee will host a series of Birthday Party events over the next four weeks, beginning tomorrow, McIntyre said.
Tomorrow will be an all-you-can-eat chili feed from 4 to 7 p.m., followed by a trick-or-treat event Saturday from 1 to 3 p.m.
Coming up, Hy-Vee's extended Birthday Party will also have a customer appreciation event at the gas station, including free coffee; a kids' breakfast featuring a popular cartoon character; and a cake and ice cream event.
The 50th anniversary celebration is really a way of saying "thank you" to the community, McIntyre stated.
"Not only is Hy-Vee here for the community, but the community is here for Hy-Vee," he said.
