10 things you should know about Trader Joe's opening in Birmingham

Have you heard Trader Joe's is coming to Birmingham in 2015?  Go here to see Jeremy Gray's post about the announcement.  The discount gourmet food store will open at the Summit shopping center during the second half of next year.

This is exciting news for Birmingham shoppers who have longed for the store to open in this market.

Did you know Trader Joe's is the cousin of Aldi?  Yep they are, but the brands and food options are different.

If you've never shopped at Trader Joe's here are some things to keep in mind:

1.  The store carries 'unconventional' and 'interesting' products with the store's label. Don't expect a lot of name brand items.

2. If you like a product take note of your inventory, the store may not keep it around very long.  They are constantly rotating inventory or discontinuing products to bring in new items.

3. If you don't like a Trader Joe's private label product take it back for a full refund or exchange, no hassle.

4.  No weekly sales ads, coupons or memberships.  They pride themselves on having the lowest prices.

5.  Employees wear Hawaiian shirts - if you spot an employee and want to try something in the store, they will open the product and let you try it before you buy it.  (most of the time)

6.  When you hear the bells here's what they mean: one bell ring means open a new register, two bell rings means there's a question at the register, three bells means a manager is needed. It's what they call island-style communication.

7. Careers -- They do have a careers page here that you can monitor for openings and job fairs. You can also fill out applications online.

8.  Fearless Flyer newsletter is sent out once a month or so.  Go here to register for emails.  You can also select a direct mail option here.

9. Trader Joe's has an app. Go here to download for iPhone.  Droid is not available yet.

10. There is a list of gluten free, vegetarian, quick meal, vegan, Kosher and fat free products available.  Go here. 

Go here to read a fun round-up of tips for shopping at Trader Joe's via BuzzFeed.

Go here to see a round-up of items the writer at 100 Days of Real Foods purchases at Trader Joe's.

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