Busch's Opens In Canton, Fresh Thyme On The Way

CANTON, MI — Canton shoppers are about to have a lot more options when it comes to groceries. Busch’s Fresh Food Market opened Wednesday and Fresh Thyme Farmers Market will follow on March 22.

Fresh Thyme, which emphasizes fresh, healthy foods, especially fruits and vegetables, will open its store on Morton Taylor Road just north of Ford Road. Busch’s renovated the former Farmer Jack’s store on Canton Center Road near Cherry Hill.

“We’re thrilled to be opening our eighth store in Michigan,” Fresh Thyme CEO Chris Sherrell said in a statement. “The Fresh Thyme mission is to service our customers like family and to offer healthy, good food at really good prices.”

A vibrant grocery scene appears to be developing in the township. Meijer, Holiday Market, Kroger, Target and Walmart all have outlets. Canton Economic Development Manager Kristen Thomas Thomas said Fresh Thyme and Busch’s are welcomed additions.

“It says that we are attracting quality development and the our community is still growing,” she said. “We like good food in Canton, whether it’s in the form of a restaurant or grocery store. The more options, the better.”

Busch’s bought the shopping plaza where its new store now sits. Thomas said the plaza is doing well with a hair salon, fitness center and pizza parlor, among other tenants. But without question, the grocery store is the star of the show.

A barbeque restaurant, craft beer and wine sections, gelato and juice bars and a spot for fresh sushi highlight Busch’s, said Thomas. “They make everything fresh,” she added. “It’s amazing.”

Three smokers are used to prepare barbeque dishes at “JB Smokehouse’s.” Thomas said she tried a “brisket taco” at a sneak preview Tuesday night that definitely hit the mark.

Busch’s did not expand the footprint of the former Farmer Jack’s. “They just made extremely good use of the space,” said Thomas.

As for Fresh Thyme, shoppers will be able to access the grocery store from either Ford Road or Morton Taylor. It sits adjacent to Applebee’s and Boston Market. Thomas said it will fill a long desired niche in Canton for organic foods.

Photo courtesy of Canton Township