Neon Marketplace Breaks Ground In Warwick

WARWICK, RI — The developers of a Neon Marketplace in Warwick welcomed dignitaries to their groundbreaking today and talked about what they’re doing.

Neon describes itself as the “newest and most innovative brand in the convenience store industry” and promises “a food destination where friendly colleagues provide premium products at bright, clean, and technology-driven stores.”

The Warwick location at 1776 Post Rd. will have electric vehicle charging stations and 16 fueling stations. It's scheduled to open sometime this fall. The store will offer gourmet coffee and breakfast items, artisanal pizza baked in an 800-degree oven, hot and cold grinders, prepackaged fresh salads and healthy food selections, the company said in a news release.

“We’re excited to join the Warwick community and we appreciate all those who attended our groundbreaking to celebrate,” said Peter Rasmussen, the company’s director of operations. He said Neon Marketplace donated $5,000 to the Boys and Girls Club of Warwick.

Lt. Gov. Sabina Matos, Mayor Frank Picozzi, Senate Majority Leader Michael McCaffrey, City Council President Stephen McAllister and Councilor Timothy Howe all wielded shovels. Guests sampled cold brew coffee, lemonade, bakery items and grinders.

“Block by block, community by community we are building a stronger economy for all Rhode Islanders,” said Matos in a statement.

“I am delighted to see another business moving into Warwick,” said Picozzi. “Neon will not only generate new jobs and tax revenue for the city and state, but at the same time, it will fill a void at an important intersection on the Post Road corridor,” said McCaffrey.

McAllister said the store and its offerings “will not only benefit Warwick residents but everyone who visits our city, including travelers in and out of Rhode Island TF Green International Airport.”

Neon promises 40 regular jobs and 100 construction jobs. The company said store associates will be paid up to $17 an hour and general managers can make up to $90,000. The company said they are making a $9 million investment in Warwick.

Neon Marketplace says it is opening 30 locations by the end of 2022. Their goal is to develop more than 150 stores in the New England market over the next five years, with a focus on Rhode Island and Massachusetts.