Shop Smart

Shop Smart began in 2003 as a regional grocery retailer focused on serving small communities in Northern California. The company opened its first store in Yreka and quickly established a presence in Siskiyou and Shasta counties, responding to the needs of rural shoppers with affordable groceries and household essentials. By 2010, Shop Smart operated five stores, each designed to fit the character and requirements of its local market.

A significant milestone in Shop Smart’s history came in 2017, when the company was acquired by Grocery Outlet. Following this acquisition, all Shop Smart locations were rebranded, and by 2018, the original Shop Smart name had been retired. As of November 2025, Shop Smart no longer operates as an independent brand; its former stores now function under the Grocery Outlet banner.

Over the past five years, the transition to Grocery Outlet has allowed these locations to continue serving their communities with a similar focus on value and accessibility. Grocery Outlet has maintained a selective but steady expansion strategy in California and other western states, with a particular emphasis on Northern California, including Siskiyou and Shasta counties. The stores occupy freestanding buildings and small shopping centers, often in visible locations near major highways, which helps drive consistent customer traffic and supports the vitality of secondary and tertiary markets.

Shop Smart’s legacy is reflected in its adaptability and reliable performance as a tenant, as well as its role in bringing national brands and private label products to underserved areas. Its integration into Grocery Outlet aligns with broader trends in grocery sector consolidation, and the continued operation of these sites under a respected national brand reinforces their credibility and long-term stability within the commercial real estate landscape.