WEWINABI ANNOUNCES GRAND MARKET RIBBON CUTTING CEREMONY
July 30, 2026
By Michele Palomaki, CEO of Wewinabl, Inc.
Wewinabi is excited to announce the Grand Market Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at 12 p.m.
This celebration marks an important milestone in Wewina-bi's continued investment in our businesses and our community. Grand Market was the first location in the portfolio to benefit from a significant capital infusion, representing strategic improvements designed to strengthen our operations, enhance the guest experience, and create new employment opportunities.
One of the most exciting additions is the expansion of our deli, allowing us to offer a wider variety of fresh food options while creating several new jobs right here in the heart of our community.
When Grand Market originally opened, it operated with two main entrances and exits. Over time, it became clear that this layout was no longer the most efficient for our guests or operations. Through this capital investment, we were able to redesign the produce area of the store by constructing a dedicated 10 Items or Less express service counter. This new area provides a faster, more convenient shopping experience for guests stopping in for tobacco products, beverages, or one of our popular grab and go deli items.
We are incredibly proud of the Grand Market team. More than 50% of our employees are Mille Lacs Band members, reflecting our commitment to creating meaningful employment opportunities within our community. We also recognize that strong partnerships are essential to serving our guests, and we value the collaboration we share with other Mille Lacs Band departments.
Guests attending the Ribbon Cutting will have the opportunity to visit informational and educational tables hosted by:
• Health and Human Services (HHS)
• Mille Lacs Corporate Ventures (MLCV) People and Culture
We are also hopeful that additional departments will join us in celebrating this exciting occasion.
Spring 2025, Grand Market proudly celebrated its 20th anniversary. As we reflected on the past two decades of serving our community, we were reminded that our success has always been made possible by the support of our guests, employees, partners, and the Mille Lacs Band community.
As we celebrate this next chapter, we look forward to many more years of growth, service, and community partnership.
Thank you for being an important part of the Grand Market story.
Chi-miigwech for 20 incredible years — we look forward to celebrating with you on August 18! Join our team along with District | Representative Carolyn Beaulieu; and Chief Executive Virgil Wind. As an added bonus, there will be drawings for prize opportunities.
