Eager shoppers wait in line for Trader Joe’s opening

The first Trader Joe’s in Colorado Springs opened Friday morning.

A crowd of eager shoppers lined up hours before the store’s ceremonial opening.

“This is my first time at Trader Joe’s,” Debbie Brown said. “I heard there is supposed to be quite a bit of organic food in there.”

Some shoppers said this new store will save them a lot of time and money.

“It’s great to have one and not have to go to Denver,” Marilyn Morgan said. “We used to take trips to that store all the time.”

For Lynne Fonda, this store is long overdue.

“I’ve been waiting 10 years for Trader Joe’s,” she said. “You can not get wild rice for $4.99 anywhere but here.”

An employee at the store said people have been driving by and inquiring about the store’s opening hours all week.

One man said he wanted to see what all the hype was about.

“I heard it on the radio,” said Ty Tyner. “I don’t even know what it is, it just says Trader on it.”

Shoppers said it’s worth the hype.

“It’s definitely a lot cheaper,” said shopper Jennifer Lee. “It’s unique I guess. I feel like I am buying more locally versus going to King Soopers or the major chains.”

“Their prices are very reasonable, a lot cheaper than other local grocery stores and places that pride themselves on organic foods,” said Myla Ray.

The store is located in the north end of University Village at 5342 N Nevada Ave.