PCC Community Markets is returning to downtown Seattle with its first-ever small-format store, opening July 15 at 1320 Fourth Avenue. Called PCC Corner Market, the new 6,500-square-foot space is much smaller than the original 19,000-square-foot downtown store, which was open for two years before closing in January 2024.

The new store will feature grab-and-go offerings like hot bar items, sandwiches, sushi, and deli food from the co-op’s Market Kitchen. It will also carry produce, pantry items, and beverages, including beer and wine. It’s designed for downtown office workers, residents, and visitors — part of what PCC CEO and President Krish Srinivasan calls “a smaller version of your neighborhood co-op, serving a big need in downtown Seattle.”

The Downtown Seattle Association reports that foot traffic in the downtown core is slowly increasing, though it remains below pre-pandemic levels. About 89,000 workers go downtown each day, and approximately 108,000 people now live in the area.

Store Manager Eli Dorr-Fay, who joined PCC in 2015, says the reopening marks a return to a neighborhood he’s excited to serve again. “The launch of PCC Corner Market represents a new chapter in how we bring fresh, local foods to Downtown Seattle’s residents and workers, and I’m thrilled to be part of it.”

A selection of Coast Salish artwork by Squaxin Island Tribe carver Andrea M. Wilbur-Sigo, originally installed in the first downtown location, will be back on display.

Doors open at 9 a.m. on July 15, with free samples, music, and giveaways for the first 50 customers. Regular hours will be Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.

PCC Community Markets is the largest food co-op in the U.S., with more than 118,000 member-owners — and one of my favorite grocery stores. My kids always grab a free fruit (a treat for kids under 12), and I have relatives who ask to stop by every time they visit from California. Nice to see it back downtown, where more people can check it out.