Run your Own
Grocery Outlet.
Build something
That's yours
Your First Step
Becoming a Grocery Outlet Operator starts with the right mix of passion, commitment, and hands-on leadership. We’re looking for people who thrive in fast-paced environments, love serving their communities, and are ready to run a store with real ownership responsibility. For more than 75 years, Grocery Outlet has helped operators just like you build thriving businesses in the communities they care about. If you’re driven, community-minded and ready to build something of your own, this is where your journey begins.
what we look for an
independent operator
Experience
Minimum of 4 years retail or multi-unit restaurant management. You know how to run a store, we’ll help you own one.
Mobility
Open to relocation for the right opportunity. Our store pipeline is growing rapidly and being flexible opens more doors.
Community
A genuine motivation to support and strengthen your local community.
Commitment
A full-time focus on ensuring your Grocery Outlet runs smoothly and successfully.
Long Term Vision
You’re not looking for a job. You’re investing in your future; for yourself, your family and your community.
Leadership
You hire, develop and lead your team your way. Strong operators build strong cultures and that starts with you.
our proven path to
ownership
Our process is built to guide you confidently from initial interest to full store ownership. With clear steps, hands-on training, and support at every stage, we help you build the skills, knowledge, and real-world experience needed to operate a successful Grocery Outlet. This is a path shaped by decades of proven success—designed to set you up for long-term growth and independence.
1
Contact Us
Start a conversation with our recruiting team. Get your questions answered, explore current store availability, and receive our full information packet.
2
Evaluation
Meet with experienced Grocery Outlet operators and our leadership team. This is your chance to ask the hard questions and make sure the opportunity is the right fit for your life and goals.
3
Paid Training
Earn while you learn. Our Aspiring Operator in Training (AOT) program places you alongside an experienced operator so you build real skills in a real store. We invested 1.5M in this program this year alone.
4
Apply for a Store
Submit your business plan for a store that fits your relocation parameters. Our team works with you to identify the best match as new and existing locations come available.
5
Open your Grocery Outlet
You’re selected, you build your team and you open your doors. This is the moment you’ve been working toward and we’ll be right beside you as you grow.
open stores ready for
ownership nearby
Explore existing and upcoming Grocery Outlet store opportunities across CA, DE, ID, MD, NJ, NV, OH, OR, PA, WA, and WV.
Their stores. Their communities.
Their words
Their stores. Their communities.
Their words
The best argument for owning a Grocery Outlet isn't a statistic
it’s the people who already do it. Hear directly from Independent Operators about what ownership changed for their careers, their families, and their communities. When you’re ready, we’d like to hear your story too.