Sobeys

I’ve recently switched from doing most of my grocery shopping at the Sobeys on Bedford highway, to using this location at Larry Uteck. Mostly because its more easily accessible by car (Bedford hwy intersection with HP rd can be a nightmare).
There are also many more box stores in the immediate surroundings, so I get more done on a single trip when I come out. Its also super convenient if you work out at the Goodlife fitness around the corner. You can often see a lot of buff bodies roaming the aisles in the store at any given time.
The layout is a little weird, but you get used to it. The refrigerators that line the back of the store take some getting used to. I keep forgetting where to get the yogurt vs cottage cheese and other dairy products.
The staff are super nice here, and the shelves seem to be better stocked, especially in produce, than many other grocery stores around. That brings me to my next point in that its usually much quieter than other Sobeys or Superstores. You’re unlikely to find long lineups here on even the busiest days.

This has to be my least favourite Sobeys. While the store is clean and bright and I’ve yet to find it busy, there are too many negatives.
The first is not directly related to the store, but I’m sure the Sobeys empire had a say in those awful, awful roundabouts. I could write a book on how much I hate those things but suffice to say, all it takes is one simple fender-​bender to bring traffic to and from the highway to a standstill.
Secondly, the produce here is the worst I have seen anywhere in HRM. Low/​no stock, wilted greenery, soft veggies, brown fruit … I don’t even like to touch it. Somehow their pre-​made salads always look good so perhaps staff hoards the few good items for chopping purposes.
Thirdly, the layout. Good luck finding the zucchini (if they’ve stocked any). Dairy-​free desserts? Wave the white flag now and head to SuperStore. The Customer Service desk is manned by one person who is responsible for lotto sales, putting flower bouquets together, plus manning a separate grocery cash (besides the two at the CS desk). Whose bright idea was this setup?
Staff are always friendly and helpful, and those are about the only positives.

For a big chain grocery store, this Sobey’s location is probably the best one around. Maybe because it’s new and shiny? They get in local breads (check out the beer bread from Garrison) and even have a great pet food section with some fresh options in a fridge. The layout really does take getting used to compared to other locations though so be prepared to not immediately find whatever it is you’re looking for.

I started going to this store when it opened. I love the market concept and it has a good selection of items although if you require special item they probably won’t have it. The layout is different than other Sobeys so you may need to get used to it