A Fresh Start for Downtown Erie: New Country Fair Aims to Nourish More Than Just Convenience

A new Country Fair has officially opened in downtown Erie — but this store is aiming to offer far more than just your typical grab-and-go options.

“We’re going to try things we’ve never done before,” said Paul Rankin, Vice President of Country Fair. “We’re looking to host chess tournaments and other events inside the store to help draw people downtown.”

This location marks a significant departure from the norm for the convenience chain. The downtown store is twice the size of a typical Country Fair and features a full-service kitchen along with a wider selection of fresh food. But for Rankin, the store’s true value lies in what it can bring to the community.

“Bringing a grocery store downtown is probably one of the best things Erie has done,” said Emma Oas, a local resident. “It gives college students and nearby residents an accessible option—without having to go all the way to Giant Eagle, three miles out.”

Brandon Mendoza, Erie regional chamber and growth partnership said, “What you’re seeing right now is a renaissance in Erie,” he said. “I don’t think there’s anything dying about this. This is about life and investment.”

He emphasized that this is just the beginning of a wave of downtown revitalization focused on improving quality of life.

“This really shows that a grocer can make it in downtown,” Mendoza added.