Green Pond grocery, Soddy-Daisy landmark, gets facelift

Green Pond Corner Grocery underwent cosmetic construction recently in an effort to modernize for what could be added competition coming.

The old brick building has been a fixture in the New Salem area of Soddy-Daisy since the 1950s at the corner of Dallas Hollow and Green Pond roads. The owners recently put a new stucco facade and a fresh coat of paint on the storefront and replace the sidewalk with a faux cobblestone walkway.

"We just felt it was a good time to upgrade to stay competitive," said Angie Parlier, store manager.

The makeover is in preparation for a convenience store, which Ms. Parlier said is expected to be built across the street.

Wesley Thompson, owner of the 1149 Green Pond Road property across the street, admitted he would like to see a convenience store or other business there.

"I'm planning on doing something like that," he said. "I'd like for it to happen right away, but with the economy being like it is, I haven't started anything yet."

The building on the property currently houses Eddie's Upholstery, but its operators declined to comment.

Mr. Wesley said he has spoken with someone about building a convenience store, but he declined to give specifics.

Stacy Smith, an employee at Green Pond for more than two years, said it is business as usual at the 9823 Dalllas Hollow Road store.

"It is still the same," she said. "Everybody just says how much better it looks."

The store operators declined to say how much they spent of the improvements, but owners completed a major renovation of Green Pond in 2007 that increased its offerings to include gas, a wider selection of groceries, fishing supplies and fresh-baked pizza.

Ms. Smith said she is not concerned about how competition might affect Green Pond's business.

"I've been here 2 1/2 years and pretty much know everybody that comes in," she said. "Our regulars will still come in. They tell us it won't make a difference having another store."