Red X staff, Riverside mayor, Riverside city council members, dignitaries and others to participate in ceremony marking a new chapter in the community icon’s future.
Riverside, Mo. (February 16, 2023) — On Wednesday, February 22, 2023 at 8:00 a.m., Riverside Red X staff, community officials and the public will gather to officially open the new store with a ribbon cutting ceremony, kicking off a new chapter in Red X’s 75 years in business. Following the grand opening ceremony, the new store’s door is officially open for business. The 60,000+ square foot “store to explore” is built on the southeast corner of the current location.
On Tuesday, February 21, 2023 at 11:00 a.m., a day prior to the ribbon cutting ceremony and grand opening, the media is invited to take a sneak peek of the new store, including a guided- tour with Red X’s second-generation family owner and president, Zeke Young, son of founder, Ed Young.
“What started as a store remodel expanded in scope and cost, and eventually turned into a brand-new store,” says Jen Boyd, Riverside Red X vice president, Zeke Young’s daughter and granddaughter of founder, Ed Young. “The new Red X store honors our history in the community. Our iconic collection of curious antiques and eclectic artifacts have been woven into the contemporary design. The existing store will be closed Sunday, February 19 through Tuesday, February 21 so we can transition inventory and processes to the new store.”
Riverside Red X opened in 1948 and has since survived three floods and a fire. The current store was constructed in the mid 1950s after the fire. Boyd explains, “Grandpa [Ed Young] had plans for new store when he passed away in 1999, so this was part of the master plan. The new store was an opportunity for us to upgrade to more energy-efficient appliances and lighting and introduce new departments, such as a bakery, full-service deli and meat counter, plus adding a drive-thru for Phillip’s Family Pharmacy.”
The new store’s design includes better flow, with grocery immediately accessible at the main entry and lottery and cigarettes to the right of the main entrance. The liquor department can be accessed through the main grocery entrance, but also has a separate entrance for an even easier shopping experience for customers.
“The new store will have everything our customers know and love, and we’re excited to bring in new offerings,” says Zeke Young. “It’s only because of our customers that we’re able to remain a cornerstone in our community. We look at this new store as a way to give them the shopping experience they deserve. Some new things to look forward to are a high-end liquor room, a dedicated ‘Filling Station’ for hosting events and samplings that has outdoor access, expanded produce and frozen sections, a humidor and a restored antique fire engine.”
Like before, Red X’s history and antiques will be prevalent throughout the store. Ed’s Butcher Shop and Clara’s Deli pay homage to Ed Young and his wife Clara. A hand-painted mural incorporates Red X’s long-standing connection with the city of Riverside, featuring its history with the Riverside Speedway and more. The Red X team sorted through thousands of collectibles and antiques, determining how and where to place them for the ultimate “Xperience.”
Young says, “There also will be antiques on display the public has never seen before. The display was chosen specifically to tell the history of the store and community, as well as showcase some fun items and others that have sentimental value to our family and community.”
The giant Red X sign, a Riverside landmark, was revitalized, receiving a new paint job and LED lighting. The iconic sign was the only thing standing after the fire in 1957.
“We love Riverside. It’s in our blood. Grandpa played a significant role in Riverside and this community meant so much to him. It’s our family legacy to continue the relationship and to provide jobs in the community, quality groceries and produce,” says Boyd.
The new Riverside Red X was constructed by Crossland Construction Company, Inc., with BRR Architecture providing architectural services. Briarcliff Development Company provided development services and Associated Wholesale Grocers contributed store design concepts and retail business solutions.
About Riverside Red X
For generations, Red X has been the store to explore and discover. Since 1948, they have provided jobs for their family of employees and a place for their customers to get the value they need and service they deserve. Price, selection and living history is why generation after generation shops Red X for groceries, wines, beer and spirits. The new Red X is located at 2101 NW Platte Road in Riverside, MO. Visit https://www.riversideredx.com for more information.