Biz BUZZ

You're so sweet. Russell Stover has recently opened a new retail store at 7110 S. 101st E. Ave. The new location features an updated look piloted by the company's flagship sto re in Fairway, Kan., which offers much more than Russell Stover brand items.

"Though it's hard to quickly understand the difference, 'Russell Stover 'The Store' is so much more than Russell Stover the brand," said VP of store operations Angela Ellsworth. "Of course we'll feature America's best selling boxed chocolate -- Russell Stover, but we differentiate ourselves from other retail outlets that sell Russell Stover by offering specialty items such as chocolate-dipped strawberries, freshly-baked cookies, gourmet cupcakes, and hand dipped caramel apples -- all made in The Store. The Store will feature fresh-made frozen custard as well as 32 flavors of Blue Bell Ice Cream.

The new location gives Russell Stover Candies an opportunity to support the local community.

"We have reached out to the Union School District for the Union Schools Education Foundation to receive a charitable cash donation," Ellsworth said. "First, USEF will receive a $4,000 gift for each of the 19 schools in the Union School District for an initial total of $76,000 from the Ward Family Foundation. Then, each school will have the ability to raise even more money by participating in a SweetShop fundraiser at the new Russell Stover Store where from April 23 to May 6 10 percent of the sales by the school district's supporters will be donated back to the district. We've found that it's a great way to help the community and a great way to give people a reason to come visit us."

You're so fresh. The Fresh Market, which will open later this year at 7900 S. Lewis Ave., is inviting local producers to showcase their wares at an open house May 8. According to Marc Jones, senior VP of marketing and merchandising, purpose of the event is two-fold: Local food manufacturers can introduce their retail-ready products to The Fresh Market as well as learn about the company's process for selecting, promoting and selling local products in its stores.

Space is limited and available by appointment only. Those interested in attending are asked to register in advance by sending an email with their contact, company and product information to buylocal@thefreshmarket.com.