By Ruth SOWBY

Continuing its expansion across Los Angeles County, Erewhon opened its Glendale store at 520 N. Glendale Ave. on Wednesday, May 20. The upscale grocery store opened at the site formerly occupied by Virgil’s Hardware Home Center.

At exactly 9 a.m., Erewhon team members and invited guests lined up to cut the ribbon at the entrance to the store. Among those joining Glendale Mayor Pro Tem Vartan Gharapetian was Glendale City Manager Roubik Golanian and Erewhon representatives Tony Antoci, CEO and owner of Erewhon, and Jason Widener, chief operating officer.

Local animal rights activists from the grassroots network Direct Action Everywhere protested outside the official opening of the grocery’s new location.The action was part of an ongoing campaign against Meyenberg Goat Milk, the country’s largest goat dairy company. Erewhon stores carry this animal product on their shelves.

“I came today for the voiceless,” said Jennifer Martinez of Los Angeles. “I wanted to push my limits. It’s my first time, and I want to do everything I can to spread awareness.”

Several minutes into the disruption, the activists were escorted away by security; police arrived and spoke with the group’s police liaison.

After the store’s ribbon-cutting, hundreds of customers entered the store. They were on the lookout for the complimentary gift bags and flowers. Regular in-store shopping included the debut of Glendale-exclusive offerings such as the Glendale Bird Cake Smoothie made with organic ingredients. Its sale will benefit the Garden School Foundation; a portion of proceeds from every smoothie sold will be donated.     

Customer and Burbank resident Cecelia Walker said, “I came here for the bag. We don’t have Erewhon in Burbank.”     

Founded in 1968, Erewhon has 14 locations in LA County.