After a journey spanning 14 months and overcoming multiple setbacks, Community Grocery officially opened its doors in downtown Corpus Christi during ArtWalk Friday. The much-anticipated grocery store, co-owned by Lucas Boyd and David Laurel, was initially scheduled to launch in fall 2023, but unforeseen hurdles delayed the process. However, the owners believe the struggles were worth it, echoing the sentiment that “anything worth doing is never going to be easy.”
Now open daily from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., the store aims to provide convenience, quality products, and a sense of community to local residents.
More Than Just a Grocery Store
Community Grocery is not just a supermarket but a multifunctional space that combines retail with dining. The store offers a wide range of products, including:
✅ Toiletries
✅ Pet supplies
✅ Over-the-counter medicine
✅ Wine and beverages
✅ Fresh food and dairy products
✅ Cleaning items
✅ Clothing and accessories
In addition to its diverse retail selection, the store houses a restaurant where customers can enjoy freshly made sandwiches with house-baked bread and customizable ramen bowls. Whether dining in or ordering takeout, shoppers can grab a delicious meal while picking up their essentials.
City Leaders Show Support for Local Business
The grand opening ceremony drew the attention of Corpus Christi city officials, including City Councilman Everett Roy, who spoke about the importance of supporting local businesses. His message resonated with Boyd, who emphasized the economic benefits of keeping money circulating within the community.
“The longer our dollar stays in our community, the more our community reaps in,” Boyd explained. “The more you recycle that dollar in downtown, the more it benefits our economy and our community.”
Expansion Plans
While Community Grocery is fully operational, the owners have big expansion plans. According to Laurel, the supermarket will soon introduce:
➡ Catering services
➡ Pop-up events
➡ A dedicated food delivery service
Residents of Nueces Lofts will soon enjoy an app-based ordering system, allowing them to have groceries and meals delivered right to their doorstep. Additionally, Community Grocery intends to expand its delivery service throughout downtown Corpus Christi in the coming months.
Honoring a Legacy: Remembering ‘Wild’ Bill Hoover
The opening of Community Grocery is also a tribute to co-founder Bill Hoover, who sadly passed away in November 2023 at the age of 65. Boyd, who started this venture with Hoover five years ago, shared heartfelt memories of his late friend.
“I met ‘Wild’ Bill Hoover back then, and we hit it off like we were 21-year-old dudes in college,” Boyd recalled. “He had a lot to offer in terms of business knowledge, but he also knew how to balance work, family, and fun.”
To keep Hoover’s memory alive, Community Grocery has incorporated his famous phrase, “I think we’re gonna be OK,” on store merchandise, including T-shirts. Additionally, a surfboard belonging to Hoover will be displayed in the store as a lasting tribute.
“To keep his memory alive, we’re going to keep Mr. Bill in our hearts and on our tongues as often as we can,” Boyd said.
A New Chapter for Downtown Corpus Christi
With its grand opening, Community Grocery is set to become a staple in downtown Corpus Christi. Beyond offering groceries and dining, the store aims to serve as a gathering place for the community while fostering local economic growth.
The store represents a new chapter of convenience, connection, and culinary delight for all residents and visitors in one location.